Every year, around the end of March, a quiet park in Amstelveen transforms into a beautiful landscape of delicate pink and white cherry blossoms. The Japanese Cherry Blossom Park in Amstelveen is a unique place in the Netherlands, with four hundred Japanese cherry blossom trees that can’t be found anywhere else. Visiting this park during the cherry blossoms’ bloom is an experience you don’t want to miss.
The Peak of Bloom
The cherry blossoms’ blooming period is short but spectacular. Around mid-March to mid-April, the trees transition from pink buds to gorgeous white cherry blossoms. This year, the cherry blossoms were early, marking the peak of bloom in the third week of March. Despite the unpredictable Dutch spring, the beauty of the cherry blossoms was undeniable.
Atmosphere of the Cherry Blossom Park
Upon arrival at the Cherry Blossom Park, you immediately feel the vibrant atmosphere. People of all ages gather under the blooming trees. Families enjoy picnics on colorful blankets, while children play happily among the cherry blossoms. The park serves as an idyllic backdrop for photo shoots, such as that of a bridal couple capturing the romance of the cherry blossoms.
Picnic dishes – Boboji
In addition to the usual picnic dishes such as sandwiches and salads, you will also see special snacks such as Boboji. Boboji is a traditional snack from Sichuan, China. It’s a spicy cold skewer snack infused with the flavor of green peppercorns and various spices. This snack has a long history and was already popular during the Chinese Qing Dynasty (1644-1911) due to its spicy taste and the tingling sensation the peppers impart. This adds something special to your picnic experience and fits perfectly with the Cherry Blossom Park’s cozy atmosphere.
Cherry Blossom Park | Meaning and Tradition
The Japanese Cherry Blossom Park holds not only aesthetic value but also carries symbolic significance. A memorial tablet commemorates the victims of the earthquake and tsunami in Japan in March 2011. This emphasizes the bond between the Netherlands and Japan, strengthened by the donation of cherry blossom trees by the Japanese Women’s Club in Amstelveen in honor of four hundred years of diplomatic relations.
Tips for Visitors
If you plan to visit the Cherry Blossom Park in Amstelveen, keep an eye on the blooming period, which depends on the weather. Go early to avoid crowds and enjoy the serene beauty of the cherry blossoms. Don’t forget to bring a picnic basket and indulge in delicious food under the blooming cherry blossom trees. Also, remember to bring your camera to capture the beautiful moments!
Visit the Cherry Blossom Park in Amstelveen
A visit to the Cherry Blossom Park in Amstelveen is definitely worthwhile, despite the short blooming period of the cherry blossoms. It is a peaceful and beautiful place that attracts many visitors every year and leaves a lasting impression. The Cherry Blossom Park of Amstelveen offer a unique opportunity to experience the beauty of nature and at the same time celebrate the connection between different cultures.
Address: Doorweg 32, 1182 DB Amstelveen, the Netherlands
