Washington, D.C. – Japan and the United States ushered in the spring season with a symbolic gesture of friendship – the gift of 250 new cherry trees from Japan to the U.S. These cherry trees will replace the ones set to be removed from the Tidal Basin to make way for necessary repairs to the area’s seawall in the coming months.
During a welcome ceremony for Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida and First Lady Yuko Kishida, President Joe Biden announced the generous donation of cherry trees. The timing of this gift is particularly significant as it coincides with the U.S.’s upcoming 250th birthday in 2026, a gesture that strengthens the longstanding bond between the two nations.
The cherry trees hold a special place in the heart of Washington, D.C., symbolizing the enduring friendship between Japan and the United States. These trees have a rich history dating back over a century, originating from a gift of 3,000 cherry trees from Japan in the early 1900s. The collaboration between American and Japanese individuals to beautify the nation’s capital underscores the deep-rooted connection shared by the two countries.
In a moment of reflection, President Biden reminisced about the historical significance of the cherry trees in Washington, remarking on the enduring beauty and symbolism they represent. Strolling through the White House grounds to visit the cherry blossom trees, he highlighted the tree planting ceremony that took place between the first ladies of both nations in 2023, further cementing the bond between Japan and the U.S.
The new cherry trees, to be planted near the Martin Luther King Memorial, serve as a poignant reminder of the timeless and flourishing friendship between the two nations. As the cherry blossoms bloom each spring, they not only adorn the city with their beauty but also stand as a living testament to the enduring partnership between Japan and the United States.