The first signs of true spring are in Vilnius. Pink cherry blossoms are slowly starting to bloom in the Chijune Sugihara Sakura Park, located on the right bank of the Neris River near the National Gallery of Art. Although the peak of flowering is still approaching, Vilnius residents are already flocking to the park to welcome one of the most beautiful transformations of the season.
Every spring, this park becomes a special place - for walks, photos, and moments of peace. The pink and white blossoms are not only pleasing to the eye, but also symbolize the beginning of spring and the renewal of life.
The Sakura Park in Vilnius did not appear by chance – on October 2001, 2, to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the birth of Japanese diplomat Chiune Sugihara, 200 Japanese sakura trees were planted here. Sugihara is an exceptional personality who saved thousands of lives during World War II. The park dedicated to his memory has become not only a historical but also a natural monument.
Vilnius residents call this period sakura season – many residents and city guests come to the park specifically to watch the short-lived but memorable bloom. Although nature is a bit late this year, the first blossoms are already announcing: spring is truly here.
With weather forecasters predicting very warm weather in the coming days, it is likely that we will see the sakura in full bloom very soon.
