Seattle Cherry Blossom & Japanese Cultural Festival

The festival is dedicated to increasing the understanding and friendship between the people of Japan and the Pacific Northwest. It features ikebana, martial arts demonstrations, tea ceremonies, kimono dress-up, children's activities, koto music, taiko drumming, and more. The festival was initiated by a gift of 1,000 cherry trees to Seattle from Japan's former Prime Minister, Takeo Miki, to commemorate America's bicentennial and the lifelong friendship of Japan and Washington. Hanami, cherry blossom viewing, is a reminder to celebrate life.