Sakura, or Cherry Blossom, is Japan's national flower and a celebrated symbol of renewal and hope. 

Watching these beautiful flowers bloom during the spring has become a popular activity in- and outside of Japan.  In Japan, this is called Hanami ; a practice whereby you have a picnic under the blooming Sakura together with friends, family and co-workers. As the blooming periods often fall together with the start of school- and business years, this is an ideal way to socialize and celebrate fresh starts. 

Sakura is getting more and more appreciated and not just because of its beauty. The Sakura flowers have a very subtle, flowery flavor. Combining sublime appearance and taste, Sakura is a great ingredient both for flavoring and decoration.

Use it to beautify cookies and pastries, simply cook it with rice, or use it in homemade cosmetics! Alternatively, poor some hot water on top of pickled Sakura petals for a beautiful, light tea, often served at Japanese wedding ceremonies to emphasize a  beautiful beginning. 

The leaves of the Sakura have the most intense aroma and are used as a whole, or as powder to enhance the flavor of cookies and Japanese style sweets, such as Sakuramochi. 

Due to the popularity of Sakura rising internationally, more and more brands start to incorporate Sakura fragrance and flavor in their offerings - from Sakura lattes to Sakura bath bombs.