Where I live in Chiba there are two very contrasting places where you can view the Sakura Blossoms.
Below is a very industrial looking park where all of the trees are aligned in perfect rows. While the trees are still pretty the atmosphere is rather sterile. I call this one Sakura and Cement.

About a mile or so down the road, across from my apartment , the scene contrasts sharply. It is a more attractive natural setting where there were people picnicking and kids playing. The ladies in the foreground were set for the day with a folding picnic table and a brunch with wine. It felt rather festive as I circled the park on my bike.
What do you think of the more modern Sakura Park?
I’m off to try and watch the Honoozumo (sumo practice) as Yasukuni Shrine tomorrow. It’s a free event for the first six thousand people. Wish me luck as I hate crowds!
0 responses so far ↓
1 www.japansoc.com // Apr 3, 2008 at 9:58 pm
Cement & Sakura - A good combination?
Where I live in Chiba they built a Sakura park a couple of years ago. Take a look - it’s row upon row of Sakura trees and no grass! It kind of takes away from the whole experience don’t you think?
2 billywest // Apr 4, 2008 at 1:29 am
I really like the pic that you called ‘Sakura and Cement’; Quite a good representation of how the Japanese like to contain nature and shape it to their liking.
3 Neil Duckett // Apr 4, 2008 at 10:34 am
Good Luck! ;>)
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