21 days of floral extravaganza
Our 21-day journey through Japan was nothing short of a floral dream, filled with vibrant colors and enchanting scents that adorned every corner we explored. From the iconic cherry blossoms to the mesmerizing wisterias, each destination offered a unique glimpse into Japan’s natural beauty.
Day 1-5: Cherry Blossoms in Hakodate
Our adventure began in Hakodate, where we were greeted by the full bloom of cherry blossoms. The entire Goryōkaku Park was draped in a magical canopy of pink, creating a breathtaking sight that felt like stepping into a fairy tale. The delicate petals fluttered in the breeze, casting a serene spell over the park and filling the air with their sweet fragrance.
Day 6-9: Spring Flowers in Saitama
Next, we traveled to Saitama, where the streets were adorned with an array of spring flowers. Tulips, daffodils, and pansies added splashes of color to every street corner and park. Each flower bed was a carefully curated masterpiece, showcasing the dedication and artistry of the local gardeners.
Day 10-12: Blooming Hanging Florals in Nagano
Our journey continued to Nagano, where the hanging florals were in full bloom. The cityscape was transformed by cascading vines of blooming flowers, creating a vibrant tapestry that brought the city to life. Each street and alleyway seemed to be draped in a living curtain of blossoms.
Day 13-15: Wisteria in Takayama
In Takayama, we were enchanted by the wisteria adorning the roofs of old Edo houses. The historic charm of the town was enhanced by the elegant purple blooms cascading from every eave and pergola. The sight of wisteria in full bloom, coupled with the traditional architecture, created a timeless and serene atmosphere.
Day 16-18: Floral Wonderland in Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
Our adventure took us to Fukuoka, where we visited Uminonakamichi Seaside Park. Despite starting with heavy rain, the skies cleared, revealing a floral wonderland. We strolled across fields of purple poppies and marveled at the extensive gardens of roses. Never before had we seen such a vast variety of roses in one place, each meticulously maintained and radiating beauty.
Day 17-21 Exploring More Gardens and Final Reflections
In the final days of our journey, my phone was already overloaded with colorful snaps of all the blooms that never failed to fascinate us. Each location added to the rich tapestry of our floral extravaganza, reminding us of the incredible diversity and beauty of nature.
Returning to my studio, this journey inspired me to create a new series of sculpture paintings. The wisteria, pansies, and sakura from our travels are immortalized in my 12x12 inch mixed media artworks. Each piece captures the essence of these flowers, using various materials and techniques to reflect their unique beauty and charm.