Cherry Blossom Festival

Cherry Blossom Walk in the Japanese Gardens

When I traveled to Washington DC last fall, it was a tough decision to know whether to visit in the Fall for colorful autumn leaves or during the Spring for the blooming cherry blossom trees.  In the end my sister and I chose to experience a back east Fall.  So when we heard that The Descanso Gardens was having a Cherry Blossom Festival, we knew we just had to go.  In the Japanese Gardens, there is a soothing path alongside a peaceful stream that is filled of whitish pink cherry blossom trees. You will forget you're still in the buzz of Southern California as you soak in the serenity of these enchanting surroundings.  

At the Tea House they were serving sushi and teriyaki dishes.  We ordered the Rainbow Sushi Rolls that were topped with tuna, shrimp, cucumbers and salmon and stuffed with crab and avocados...  a fun way to get into the spirit of the festival.

As we ventured away from the Japanese Gardens we found several other types of cherry blossom species.

Descanso is a perfect place for picnics, especially under their ginormous oak trees.

 

No need for perfume in the lilac garden!  We weren't the only ones enjoying the sweet scent.  This wounded but still beautiful butterfly kept busy while we watched.

During this time of year, Descanso is famous for displaying huge planters filled with friendly tulips.. a showstopping entrance or exit for the gardens.

If you live in Southern California, the next few weeks is the perfect time to visit when most flowers and trees are in bloom.  We saw lots of poppy buds, and their salads looked incredible at the cafe.  Can't wait to go back in a few weeks!