As March comes to an end, the cherry blossom trees begin to bloom, welcoming spring with their vibrant pink petals. Attracting San Diegan natives and tourists alike, the Japanese Friendship Garden’s Annual Cherry Blossom Festival promotes a unique cultural experience. The festival embeds glimpses of Japanese culture immersing visitors with traditional performances, foods, arts, crafts and vendors. Visitors also have a chance to bring a cherry blossom sapling with them home for $175. In 2019, tickets were $12 for adults; $10 for students, seniors, and military with IDs; and free for children six and under. Creating endless photo opportunities, Balboa Park’s sen-kei-en (three-scene garden) Japanese Friendship Garden embraces Japan’s prideful cherry blossom season through an unforgettable experience.
What we love:
- * Breathtaking photo opportunities to capture Japan’s iconic cherry blossom celebration
- * Eating traditional Japanese delicacies such as okonomiyaki (fried pancake), daifuku (sweet filling stuffed mochi) and taiyaki (fish-shaped cake with red bean paste)
- * Japanese cultural performances and activities to experience, such as taiko (Japanese barrel-shaped drum), kimishibai (Japanese paper play, storytelling theatre), kimono rentals, calligraphy, the game of Go and much more
