Japan has announced that it will be donating 250 new cherry trees to the United States to replace the ones being removed this summer during the repair of the seawall around Washington D.C.'s Tidal Basin. The announcement was made by Japanese Prime Minister during his official visit to the White House, where President Joe Biden welcomed him.
The gift is intended to commemorate the 250th anniversary of the U.S. in 2026, symbolizing the enduring friendship between the two nations. The tradition of cherry tree gifting dates back to 1912 when Japan gifted 3,000 cherry trees to the U.S., with two of them being planted by the first lady and the Japanese ambassador's wife.
The cherry trees, known for their vibrant pink and red blossoms, attract over a million visitors to Washington each spring, enhancing the city's beauty. The latest donation underscores the strong alliance between Biden and Kishida as they discuss security matters in the Pacific region.
The Tidal Basin, home to the highest concentration of cherry blossom trees, is undergoing a $133 million improvement project that includes the replacement of some trees. Japan promptly offered to provide saplings to replenish the lost trees, emphasizing the enduring bond between the two countries.
Both leaders expressed confidence in the deepening of the Japan-U.S. alliance, with Kishida highlighting the significance of the cherry blossom-like bond. Biden, reflecting on the historical gift of cherry trees from Japan, emphasized the cultural and diplomatic importance of the gesture.
The removal of an iconic cherry tree known as Stumpy, due to the construction work, marks the end of an era. However, the planting of new saplings signifies a continuation of the enduring friendship symbolized by the cherry trees gifted by Japan over a century ago.
