Tsunami-hit City Resumes Cherry Tree Planting

Tsunami-hit city resumes cherry tree planting

People of a city in Iwate Prefecture that was hit by a tsunami in March 2011 have resumed cherry tree planting on a smaller scale after suspending it due to the coronavirus pandemic.

A non-profit organization continues tree planting in Rikuzentakata City to pass on to future generations the reality about the devastating force of tsunamis and the importance of evacuating to higher ground.

Japan Life And Cherry Blossom-viewing Party

Japan Life and cherry blossom-viewing party

Lawyers for the victims say Japan Life solicited clients by displaying on company materials an invitation to a party funded by the Japanese government. The invitation was addressed to the firm's former chairman.

The company allegedly showed potential clients documents at seminars and other events in 2015. The documents reportedly said, "Chairman Yamaguchi Takayoshi has received an invitation from the prime minister" to an annual cherry blossom-viewing party.

Cherry Blossoms In Full Bloom In Tokyo

Cherry blossoms in full bloom in Tokyo

Weather officials declared on Sunday that cherry trees are in full bloom in Tokyo.

The Meteorological Agency's announcement came 12 days earlier than average and was five days earlier than last year. Central Tokyo was as warm as in late May, with a daytime high of 23.7 degrees Celsius.

No Parties Held At Cherry Blossom Viewing Spot

No parties held at cherry blossom viewing spot

People have been enjoying walking beneath cherry blossoms at a popular viewing spot in Tokyo on Saturday, but there are no gatherings this year due to the new coronavirus threat.

Ueno Park attracts more than 3 million people to admire the cherry blossoms in a normal year.

Start Of Cherry Blossom Season Declared In Tokyo

Start of cherry blossom season declared in Tokyo

Japan's Meteorological Agency has declared the start of cherry blossom season in Tokyo.

Agency officials confirmed on Saturday afternoon that at least five blossoms had opened on the benchmark tree of the Somei-yoshino variety at Yasukuni Shrine in central Tokyo.