Sakura the tree of life and beauty - Japanese rituals, scent and symbolism

The Sakura tree from Japan, known worldwide as the cherry blossom, is not only a visual symbol of spring in Japan – it is a cultural, emotional and aesthetic phenomenon that has inspired art, spirituality and daily rituals for centuries. Its delicate, pale pink petals appear suddenly, and their ephemeral beauty touches the hearts of millions of people. It disappears as quickly as it appears – reminding us of transience, fragility and the power of the present. It is this ephemerality that makes the sakura so powerfully appealing to the senses and emotions: it captivates the eye, soothes the soul, arouses melancholy and delight at the same time.

In this post I tell you about the importance of sakura in Japanese culture, where you can find it in Orientana cosmetics and I share information about where and when you can see blooming sakura in Poland.

In Japanese culture, sakura is more than just a tree – it is a symbol of life , rebirth and spiritual harmony. Every year, thousands of people celebrate its blooming during hanami, stopping for a moment to contemplate the beauty of nature. This deep relationship with nature, seasonality and the transience of the moment has also become an inspiration for contemporary natural cosmetics.

In care inspired by Asian rituals, sakura plays a unique role – not only thanks to its delicate, powdery scent, but also to the care properties of its flower extract. It is the quintessence of slow beauty : subtle, gentle, attentive – like sakura itself.

Sakura - a tree with a deep meaning

The sakura tree, also known as the Japanese cherry ( Prunus serrulata ), is native to East Asia and belongs to the Rosaceae family. It occurs naturally mainly in Japan, China, and Korea, although today it is also planted in the United States, Canada, and Europe – especially as an ornamental plant. In Japan alone, there are over 200 species and varieties of sakura , the most popular of which is the Somei Yoshino , whose white-pink flowers are almost a national symbol. These trees make up about 80% of all sakura growing in Japanese cities and parks.

Sakura blooms for a very short time – usually from late March to mid-April , depending on the region of Japan. Blooming begins in the south (Kyushu) and ends in the north (Hokkaido), creating a spectacular "wave of flowers", which is followed not only by society but also by special meteorological forecasts, the so-called sakura zensen . For comparison – the full bloom of sakura usually lasts only 7–10 days , and the falling petals resemble falling snow – this phenomenon is called hanafubuki .

Ephemerality as a metaphor for life

It is precisely the fragility and transience of sakura flowers that have earned them the status of a powerful philosophical symbol in Japanese culture. For centuries, sakura has embodied the idea of ​​"mono no aware" - a deep, melancholic sensitivity to the transience of beautiful things. Its blooming reminds us of the cycle of life: birth, blossoming and inevitable transience. This beauty, which lasts only a moment, teaches us to appreciate the present moment - something extremely valuable in today's accelerated world.

In a survey conducted by the Japan Weather Association, as many as 76% of Japanese people admitted that sakura has emotional and spiritual value to them, and almost 90% take part in hanami celebrations at least once in their life.

Sakura in art, literature and everyday life

The sakura motif permeates all areas of Japanese culture. It has appeared in literature since the 8th century, including in the oldest anthology of Japanese poetry, Manyōshū , where the flowering trees were praised as a manifestation of spiritual beauty. In the Heian period (794–1185), sakura became an inspiration for courtly waka poetry, and in later centuries it also appeared in playwriting, ink painting (sumi-e), ukiyo-e woodcuts, and contemporary pop culture.

For the samurai, sakura was a symbol of an honorable death—like a petal falling from a tree in its full beauty, a samurai was expected to die with dignity at a moment of greatest strength. In modern times, sakura remains an integral part of the cultural calendar—it appears on coins (e.g. the 100-yen coin), in kimonos, wedding ceremonies, and even in the names of companies, food products, and cosmetics.

Today, Japan exports elements of the sakura cult all over the world – from hanami tourism to lifestyle products inspired by its aesthetics and scent. Sakura has become a global symbol of purity, femininity, gentleness and elegance , as well as an important motif in natural cosmetics, as a carrier of values ​​such as mindfulness, transience and the beauty of everyday life.

Rituals and traditions related to sakura

The Sakura tree is a symbol of sensitivity, transience, and spiritual beauty , and is accompanied by Japanese traditions described in detail below.

Hanami – a cherry blossom viewing festival

In Japan, where sakura is one of the most important symbols of culture, celebrating its blooming has taken the form of a unique ritual – hanami . Literally, it means “flower viewing,” but in practice, hanami is much more: a time for collective contemplation of the beauty and transience of life.

The custom dates back to the Heian period (794–1185) , when courtiers would gather under cherry blossoms to write poetry and feast. Over the centuries, the tradition spread to all social classes and became one of Japan’s most important seasonal events. Today, hanami means picnics with family and friends in parks filled with sakura—to the sounds of laughter, song, and the delight of flowers.

The spiritual dimension of hanami is combined with the philosophy of mono no aware – a deep sensitivity to the transience of things. The sakura tree blooms spectacularly, but only for a few days – which reminds us of the fragility of life and the value of the present moment.

Sakura in Art: Tea Ceremony, Haiku, Zen Gardens

Sakura has inspired Japanese aesthetics and spirituality for centuries, and its image appears in countless forms of art, from traditional woodblock prints to modern anime.

In the tea ceremony , which is itself a meditative ritual of harmony, peace and respect, sakura plays the role of an aesthetic complement. A branch of blossoming cherry placed in a tokonoma (decorative niche) emphasizes the seasonality and changeability of nature.

In haiku poetry, whose structure requires conciseness and a profound capture of the moment, sakura often becomes a metaphor for life, femininity, sadness, or rebirth. One classic poem reads:

"Under the sakura tree
no one talks about death –
only about beauty.”

In zen gardens , sakura represents a moment of transition. Its presence on paths of contemplation or koi ponds symbolizes not only the beauty of nature, but also spiritual purification through contact with the ephemeral.

Cherry Blossoms in the Kitchen: Sakura on a Plate

Sakura is also used in the kitchen – both decoratively and for flavor. Japanese cherry blossoms are marinated in salt and vinegar , and then used to create original dishes and drinks with a characteristic, slightly tart, floral flavor.

Sakura leaves (especially the Oshima-zakura variety) are wrapped around mochi in traditional sakura mochi sweets, which are eaten during hanami. The petals are added to rice cakes, teas or even lemonade – for example, in the form of sakura-yu infusion : a subtle tea with a flower unfolding in the cup.

Nowadays, you can also find syrups, jams, ice creams and even beer with sakura , which fit into the fashion for seasonal cuisine and the celebration of nature.

Sakura is a tree associated primarily with aesthetics, but plays a deeper role in Japanese culture – it connects people, inspires art, and even soothes the soul through subtle flavors and scents. It is a flower that says more than words can express – just stop and look in its direction.

The scent of sakura – light, fleeting, sensual

Although I have never managed to be in Japan during the sakura bloom, I know this scent. I liked it so much for a long time that I wanted to create a cosmetic with this scent. It was not easy, but I succeeded.

The natural scent of sakura - or Japanese cherry blossoms - is in practice almost impossible to obtain in the form of pure essential oil or absolute , because these flowers contain very few volatile fragrance compounds .

Characteristics of the sakura scent: floral, powdery, slightly almond

The scent of sakura is a subtle, almost ephemeral scent that captivates with its delicacy and elusiveness. It is not intense or dominant - rather a whisper than a voice. It can be described as floral with powdery notes , reminiscent of the scent of fresh spring flower petals immersed in warm, soft air. In some varieties, especially Prunus serrulata , you can also detect a slightly almond or milky note , reminiscent of marzipan and the purity of childhood memories. It is a clean, calm and nostalgic scent - never intrusive, always elegant.

Emotional and aromatherapeutic influence of the scent – ​​relaxation, delicacy, femininity

The aroma of sakura has a soothing effect on the nervous system , introducing a state of relaxation and balance. It is a scent that envelops the senses, calms the thoughts and brings a sense of comfort. In aromatherapy, it is attributed with properties that soothe emotional tensions , especially those related to overstimulation, stress or states of melancholy.

Sakura is also a symbol of delicate femininity – not aggressive, but attentive, subtle and sensual. Its scent can strengthen the sense of self-worth and body, promoting a moment for yourself and a mindful care ritual. It is the perfect scent for evening relaxation, meditation or aromatherapy massage.

The role of sakura scent in perfumes and cosmetics - the difficulty of obtaining a natural aroma

Despite its popularity, the natural scent of sakura is difficult to obtain . Cherry blossoms do not contain a large amount of essential oils, so they cannot be easily distilled like, for example, roses or lavender. For this reason, perfumery most often uses scent reconstructions - delicate compositions composed of floral, green, powdery and almond notes, which convey the impression of a blooming cherry.

In cosmetics, the scent of sakura acts as a mood accent – ​​it does not overwhelm, but introduces a feeling of lightness and luxury. It can be found in body mists, balms, shampoos or bath elixirs. It blends well with notes of peony, jasmine, green tea and musk, creating the impression of clean skin and a peaceful morning .

Creating perfumes or cosmetics with the scent of sakura is a true art – it requires a sense of proportion and an understanding of the sensual nature of this plant. It is a scent that suggests more than it says, evokes memories more than it imposes them. And it is in this subtlety that its power lies.

Sakura in Orientana cosmetics

Because I have been dreaming of the scent of sakura in Orientana cosmetics for years, and as you already know, this scent is very difficult to create, I was very stubborn. We worked on this cosmetic for a very long time because it was not only supposed to be a perfume but also a care product.

In May 2025, our SAKURA JAPANESE hair and body mist premiered. It has a beautiful, long-lasting scent and does not contain alcohol. If you use hair mists that perfume your hair, you know how difficult it is to find a scent without alcohol. But in this case, there is no need to worry that the Orientana mist will destroy your hair. On the contrary - the Orientana mist will moisturize your hair and skin!

Sakura-inspired cosmetics perfectly fit into the idea of ​​slow beauty – a trend that focuses on a conscious, sensual and ritual approach to care. In contrast to quick solutions and aggressive treatments, slow beauty celebrates time for yourself , contact with nature and aesthetic experiences that flow from simple but beautiful care gestures.

The scent of sakura, subtle and ephemeral, introduces an element of contemplation to daily care. Its sensuality does not result from intensity, but from delicacy - it evokes the peace of a spring morning, the softness of petals falling on the skin, a moment of pause in the rush of everyday life. Such a scent encourages slowing down and focusing on what is fleeting but beautiful.

Cosmetics with sakura – for example in the form of a light body and hair mist – build an aesthetic ritual that works not only on the body but also on emotions. Their formulas often emphasize naturalness, delicacy and gentleness, thanks to which they are perfect for care focused on skin comfort and soothing the senses . It is not allowed for cosmetics with sakura to contain alcohol denat.

Slow beauty with sakura is not only about taking care of your beauty, but also about practicing mindfulness . Each application becomes an opportunity to stop, listen to yourself and build a relationship with your body. Sakura, as a symbol of transience and the beauty of the moment, reminds us that care can be a form of meditation – a simple but profound act of self-care.

Sakura tree of inspiration – how to introduce this motif into everyday life?

Hanami – the Japanese festival of contemplating cherry blossoms – is a celebration of the momentary beauty and transience of life. This ritual can be transferred to everyday life through sensual experiences that combine scent and body care. The hair and body mist with the aroma of sakura acts as a personal cloud of spring – light, floral, powdery. It envelops with subtlety, brings relief and allows for a moment of detachment from the daily rush. It is like perfume with a hint of cherry blossom.

Sakura can appear not only on the skin, but also in the space in which we live. Japanese aesthetics in the home are harmony and mindfulness. Introducing scented candles with a hint of cherry blossom is a way to create an intimate atmosphere full of warmth and peace. Light, airy fabrics - linen, cotton - can evoke the lightness of petals falling from the tree. Fragrance compositions based on sakura - e.g. essential oils in a diffuser - fill the home with a soothing, feminine, sensual aroma. It is an invitation to practice simplicity, beauty and presence.

Although sakura is considered a symbol of delicacy, its true power lies in its reminder of what is fleeting and therefore precious. In Japanese culture, cherry blossoms represent not only transience, but also courage and freedom. For many women, it becomes a metaphor for feminine nature – sensitive, but not weak; beautiful, but aware of its strength. Life with the sakura motif is a mindful life – focused on the here and now, nurturing daily rituals, appreciating silence, touch, smell, and gaze. Sakura inspires slowing down and enjoying the smallest gestures.

Will you see a sakura tree in Poland?

We also have streets and parks in Poland, where the sakura tree pleases our sense of smell and sight. In Poland, sakura trees, most often the Prunus serrulata variety, are planted as decorative urban plantings - in parks, along avenues or on the grounds of universities and cultural institutions. Below I give you specific ones, maybe you will be able to visit these places.

Warsaw

• Ujazdowski Park – one of the most famous places with blooming sakura trees.
• Pole Mokotowskie – an alley of Japanese cherries along the paths.
• Szczęśliwice (Ochota) – Drawska Street, near Górka Szczęśliwicka.

Wroclaw

• Japanese Garden in Szczytnicki Park – classic sakura plantings, especially around the bridges and water features.
• Maria and Lech Kaczyński Boulevard – along the Odra River, between the Grunwaldzki Bridge and the Peace Bridge.

Cracow

• Polish Aviators Park – at Aleja Jana Pawła II, especially in the area of ​​Tauron Arena.
• Lema Street – a row of cherry trees near the sports complex.

Poznan

• Citadel Park – in spring, several large sakura trees bloom along the main avenues.
• Bukowska Street (near the Botanical Garden) – nearby you can find home and city sakura trees.

Bialystok

• Lovers' Alley in Zwierzyniecki Park – several Japanese cherry trees planted along the paths.
• Akademicka Street – near the University campus you can see the seasonal blooming of sakura trees.

Łódź

• Klepacz Park – picturesque sakura trees in the flowering season (near the University of Technology).
• Piotrkowska Street (southern section) – single ornamental trees near new investments.

Lublin

• UMCS Botanical Garden – Japanese cherry in the collection of ornamental plants.
• Racławickie Avenue / Głęboka Street – young plantings.

In Poland, sakura usually blooms from mid-April to early May , depending on the weather and region of the country. See how it looks in your country:

Factors influencing the cherry blossoming date in Poland

One of the key factors determining the time of sakura bloom in Poland is the weather in winter and at the beginning of spring. A mild, warm winter without long frosts can accelerate the start of the trees' vegetation. March is particularly important - if its temperatures are higher than the multi-year average, blooming can begin even a week earlier than usual. In turn, a cold and prolonged spring can delay the appearance of flowers until the end of April, and sometimes even the beginning of May.

The place where the sakura tree grows has a huge impact on when it blooms. Trees in cities, especially in highly urbanized areas, often bloom earlier than those growing in the suburbs or rural areas. This is due to the so-called urban heat island effect - asphalt, concrete and the accumulation of buildings increase the air temperature in cities by several degrees compared to the surroundings. Additionally, sakura planted in places sheltered from the wind, e.g. by the southern wall of a building, can be more protected from frost and enter the flowering phase faster.

Not all sakura trees bloom at the same time – the differences depend on their botanical variety. For example, one of the most popular varieties in Poland – Prunus serrulata 'Kanzan' – usually blooms in the second half of April. On the other hand, the more delicate and earlier variety 'Shogetsu' can show its flowers even a week earlier. The differences in the flowering time between varieties can be from a few days to two weeks, which means that even in the same location, sakura trees do not necessarily bloom at the same time. Therefore, choosing the right varieties is important not only for aesthetics, but also for phenology – especially in show gardens or city parks.

When is the best time to schedule photos or a visit?

The best time to admire the blooming sakura, as well as to take pictures, is during the so-called full bloom (mankai). This is the moment when most of the buds on the tree are already developed and the crown is covered with a dense carpet of flowers - most often white or in various shades of pink. The full moon usually falls about 5-7 days after the first flowers appear, in practice after the first harbingers, but before the petals start to fall.

This picturesque stage of blooming is short – usually from 7 to a maximum of 10 days , depending on the weather. Warm, dry days help the flowers stay longer, while rain or strong winds can shorten this period dramatically. Therefore, it is worth following local gardening reports or information from parks and botanical gardens to capture sakura in their most beautiful version.

For photography enthusiasts, the ideal time is just after sunrise or before sunset – the so-called golden hour – when soft, warm light highlights the delicacy of flowers. Equally special are the moments when the petals begin to fall – then the space around the trees is filled with pink rain, which creates a poetic atmosphere full of melancholy and the charm of transience. In Japan, this stage is called hanafubuki – “flower storm” – and is also considered the ideal moment for contemplation and photography.

I hope this post has intrigued you and you will try my Sakura Japońska mist. If you have any questions, write an email to Konsulta@orientana.pl I also read emails there, although this is an email to our beautician giving you advice :)

Anna Wasilewska - creator of the orientana brand