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Apr 4, 2026

Cherry Blossom Lingo: young cherry blossoms

In the vast array of words and terms used to describe cherry blossoms in Japan is the phrase wakazakura 若桜 that refers to and literally means young cherry blossom trees. Trees that are still young such as saplings or trees just a few years into their growth. 


You can often tell young cherry blossoms by just their size. They are a lot smaller and thinner.  Their blossoms are also more delicate and there are fewer of them. Moreover, they may not actually flower in their first couple of years. But another clue is often that they have supporting wooden frames, like in the picture in this post.


In Japanese poetic sensibility, wakazakura symbolizes fresh beginnings, youthful hope, and the gentle courage of growth. Have you seen any "wakazakura" this cherry blossom season?


Cherry Blossom Lingo: young cherry blossoms photo

BigfamJapan

BigfamJapan

Former nickname was "Saitama". Changed it to save confusion on place review posts! Irish, 20+ years in Japan! I also write on my personal website: insaitama.com


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