The cherry blossom, or Sakura, is the flower of trees in Prunus subgenus Cerasus. “Sakura” usually refers to flowers of ornamental cherry trees, such as cultivars of Prunus serrulata. Cherry blossoms have been described as having a vanilla-like smell, which is mainly attributed to coumarin. (reference)
The history of cherry blossoms in Canada relates to the enduring friendship between Canada and Japan. The first cherry blossom trees were given to the residents of Toronto in 1959 by the Japanese ambassador to Canada. (They were given on behalf of the citizens of Tokyo in appreciation for Toronto’s acceptance of re-located Japanese Canadian refugees. Robert Kadoguchi, the eventual founding president of the Japanese Cultural Centre, was instrumental in arranging the shipment. He described the gift as “a tangible expression of Japan’s gratitude to Toronto for accepting us warmly during the distressing period of the Second World War and the years immediately following the termination of hostilities.”) (reference)
Toronto’s High Park is one of the most iconic cherry blossom locations in the country. Thousands of people come here every spring to see the beautiful pink petals. Comparably, the Cherry Blossom Festival in Vancouver draws both locals and visitors, honouring the beauty of the flowers with activities including picnics, concerts, and art exhibits.
This gesture marked the beginning of a tradition that has since grown across the country. Over the years, more cherry blossom trees were donated to numerous Canadian cities, such as Ottawa, Vancouver, and Montreal. The everlasting friendship and cross-cultural interaction between Canada and Japan are represented by these.
The cherry blossoms have become a cherished symbol of springtime in Canada, representing renewal, beauty, and the enduring bonds of friendship between nations. They serve as a reminder of the importance of cultural exchange and the beauty that can emerge from such connections.
About Cloud Nine College
Cloud Nine College is a premier vocational (Co-Op) college offering a range of specialized co-op courses and comprehensive Intensive English Programs, including test preparation courses for IELTS and general and business ESL courses to international students. It coordinates its programs uniquely in such ways that students can advance their education to the next level at universities and job opportunities.
CNC is also an online education platform offering online certificate, diploma, higher diploma, and postgraduate diploma programs progressing to online and offline undergraduate and postgraduate degrees awarded by various educational institutions and universities around the world.
Cloud Nine College started as a language training institution back in 2010 and now has expanded into providing career training programs:
- Hotel and Restaurant Management Co-op Diploma
- Hotel and Restaurant Management Co-op Certificate
- International Trade and Business Management Co-op Diploma
- Professional Sales Co-op Certificate
Learn more about CNC at www.cloudninecollege.com/
