Colors of My Heart

Aoyama Cemetery, located in Minami-Aoyama, Minato City, Tokyo, is a serene and peaceful place, quietly nestled away from the hustle and bustle of the city center. In spring, the grounds come alive with the vibrant bloom of approximately 320 cherry trees, making it one of Tokyo’s most distinguished yet understated cherry blossom viewing spots. The cemetery features a diverse array of cherry tree varieties, with Somei Yoshino as the main species, complemented by Yaezakura and Shidarezakura, offering visitors a rich and colorful visual experience. One of the most captivating sights is the cherry-lined road that runs north to south through the center of the cemetery. This path stretches for about 750 meters, with cherry trees blooming on both sides, creating a breathtaking tunnel of blossoms. Simply walking along this road allows one to fully embrace the gentle spirit of spring. Due to the nature of the cemetery, no festive events, illuminations, or gatherings are held, making it an ideal ...

The flowering peach (Hanamomo) is a deciduous small tree belonging to the Prunus genus of the Rosaceae family. It is a cultivated variety of the peach tree, bred specifically for ornamental purposes. Unlike common peach trees, which are grown for their fruit, Hanamomo is cultivated primarily for the beauty of its blossoms. These photographs capture the exquisite Hanamomo trees in Shinjuku Gyoen, one of Tokyo’s most renowned gardens. One of the most striking characteristics of Hanamomo is the diversity of its flower shapes and colors. The blossoms come in various forms, including single-petaled, double-petaled, and chrysanthemum-like varieties. Their colors range from pure white and delicate pink to vibrant red and even bicolor combinations of red and white, creating a stunning visual display. Blooming from mid-March to early  April, Hanamomo flowers appear around the same time as cherry blossoms, adding to the vibrant scenery of spring. The tree typically grows to a height of 2 to ...

For the Japanese, plum blossoms (ume) are among the most cherished flowers.  Alongside cherry blossoms, they are known as a symbol of the arrival of spring. When we trace their historical and cultural background, it becomes clear that plum blossoms are deeply connected to the Japanese sense of beauty. Because they bloom in the early spring while the chill of winter still lingers, plum blossoms have long been regarded as a symbol of hope that emerges after enduring harsh conditions. This sentiment has been expressed in countless traditional waka and haiku poems since ancient times. In addition, the plum blossom’s elegant fragrance and dignified appearance have made it a symbol of grace and integrity throughout Japanese history. It is no surprise that plum motifs frequently appear in various aspects of Japanese culture, such as the tea ceremony, traditional paintings, and kimono patterns—reflecting a spiritual aesthetic that resonates deeply with the Japanese heart. Even today, plum ...

Even in the cold of winter, the daffodils blooming in Shinjuku Gyoen stand gracefully, offering comfort and tranquility to those who visit. Their peak season typically spans from mid-December to early February, during which two main varieties can be enjoyed throughout the garden: Paperwhite and Japanese daffodil (Nihon Suisen). The Paperwhite variety features pure white petals and a white central corona, giving a delicate and elegant impression. In contrast, the Japanese daffodil has a yellow corona that beautifully contrasts with its white petals, and its subtle fragrance adds to its charm. These daffodils can be found in several areas of the garden, including along the path just inside the Shinjuku Gate, around the Lower Pond, near the Service Center, and in front of the Eco House. Each location offers a unique atmosphere in which to appreciate the flowers. The photos I have uploaded this time were all taken along the path immediately after entering through the Shinjuku Gate. For pho...

 The garden located in Chichibu City, Saitama Prefecture, is a famous destination for robai (wax plum) flowers, which bloom every winter and attract many visitors with their vibrant yellow blossoms. The garden is situated at the foot of Mount Hōtōzan, offering opportunities for hiking and mountaineering. At the summit of the mountain stands the Hōtōzan Shrine, making it a popular tourist spot. Additionally, the Chichibu area is known for its hot springs and other tourist attractions, so it's highly recommended to explore the surrounding area after enjoying the robai flowers. Robai are winter-blooming flowers known for their strong fragrance and striking yellow color. They typically bloom from December to January, offering a splash of bright color in the cold season, becoming a winter tradition for those who visit. The Hōtōzan Robai Garden spans approximately 2.2 hectares, and thousands of robai trees are planted throughout the garden. A variety of robai species are cultivated, and ...