Early spring changes at Umami Hills Park

There is Equinoctial Week both in spring and autumn which include three days before and after the equinox in Japan.  During the week, many Japanese people pay a visit to their family grave customarily and my husband and I did so as usual. On each of occasions to my husband's family grave, we usually stop by Umami Hills Park in the vicinity on our way back.  (Last year's post: Vernal Equinox Day Joy)

January 3rd

The appearance of Sanshuyu  ( 山茱萸) changed dramatically from the brilliant red color to the soft yellow in less than three months since my last visit on January 3rd.



March 22nd

Sanshuyu, or Cornus officinalis, is a species of dogwood known also as Japanese cornelian cherry, native to China, Korea and Japan.  Soft yellow flowers appear in late winter to early spring.  In autumn, the tree bears oblong red fruits. 

At the nearby pond, the pinkish baby lily pads look like floating flowers on the reflected bare trees in the icy blue sky.

  

The yellow blossoms brighten and spice up the landscape or waterscape all the more.

Ume, or Japanese apricot

The scent of air and the color of the water have changed. 

Cool breeze is comfortable in the warm sunshine.



Cherry trees typically bloom between late March and early April while there are early-blooming species as well. Kawazu cherry is one of the earliest-blooming ones with larger and deeper pink blossoms.  I've had taken lots and lots of pictures of cherry blossoms of any species, but it was almost impossible to pass by ignoring these beauties.

Some are withering after about one month bloom, but still they are so beautiful.



 According to the weather forecast by Weather Map and Weathernews, cherry blossoms will start flowering at the end of March in my region.  Spring will be in full bloom soon.

 There is something about this time of year with uplifting sense of freshness, pleasant surprises, and hope. 

Enjoy the seasons changing wherever you are, my dear Friends.