From BGSU ASIAN STUDIES PROGRAM
The Cherry Blossom Festival, also known as Ohanami, returns to Bowling Green State University for its 23rd annual celebration of Japanese culture. Taking place on Sunday, April 7 from noon to 4 pm, the festival will be held at the Lenhart Grand Ballroom in the Bowen-Thompson Students Union.
The Cherry Blossom Festival holds a special significance at BGSU, as it commemorates the history of the university’s cherry trees, which were donated by alums and Japanese companies with ties to Bowling Green. The roots of this tradition date back to the 1990s when Mr. Emori, leading the alumni chapter in Tokyo, envisioned creating a site reminiscent of the iconic cherry trees along the Potomac River in Washington, D.C. In 2001, this dream became a reality with the donation of approximately 50 Japanese cherry trees by the alumni in Tokyo.
Subsequent donations, including those from Tochigi-Fuji and Dowa THT America, have further enriched the campus landscape, bringing the total number of cherry trees to over 80.
The festival will feature diverse activities and attractions that showcase Japanese culture and traditions. Attendees can participate in hands-on activities such as origami, Japanese calligraphy, traditional games such as karuta and sumo, and even try sushi making.
Other highlights include Japanese flower arrangement demonstrations, caricature artists, and the opportunity to experience a traditional tea ceremony while wearing Japanese Yukata.
The festival is free and open to the public, offering a family-friendly environment where visitors of all ages can immerse themselves in Japan’s sights, sounds, and flavors.
Whether enjoying the cherry blossoms' delicate beauty or trying their hand at traditional Japanese games, attendees will find something to delight and inspire them at the Ohanami Cherry Blossom Festival.
Click for more information about the Cherry Blossom Festival, including a full schedule of activities. https://www.bgsu.edu/arts-and-sciences/asian-studies/cherry-blossom-festival.html.
