Along Shafer Street, the picturesque view of the blossoming cherry trees is not just a welcome herald of spring, but also a time to celebrate Japanese culture and the connections between Japan and Ohio University.
And Sunday, the Japanese Student Association will host the 10th annual Sakura Festival to celebrate the importance of the Sakura cherry trees.
“They are very meaningful to us because they symbolize the characteristics of human life because these trees bloom and eventually die,” said Ayako Deguchi, advisor for the Japanese Student Association.
The 175 cherry trees lining the Hocking River were donated by Japan’s Chubu University to represent the relationship between the two institutions.
“Since we got the cherry blossoms from Chubu University, it gave us a way to celebrate the Japanese culture within our organization as well as introducing traditional cultural practices to Athens,” Deguchi said.
During the festival, those who attend can expect a variety of cultural performances from OU students and those visiting from Chubu University to perform special dances and songs.
“Every year we have different performances that are current to the Japanese arts so everyone can experience a range of Japanese dances,” said Kentaro Hashizume, a second-year graduate student studying cultural studies and the treasurer for JSA. “We have Chubu students performing Taiko, Judo and the modern AKB48 dance.”
The audience will taste authentic Japan cuisine from the lunch boxes catered by Temske Market in Columbus during the performances. The lunch comes in regular and vegetarian options and is included.
Rana Mckenzie, vice president of JSA, said she encourages everyone to bring their friends to this cultural exhibition.
“The festival is a place to learn about the Japanese culture and international students’ background,” she said. “When people think of Japan, earthquakes and anime come to mind, which is just a small part of the rich culture and deep history of Japan.”
kh845809@ohiou.edu
What: Sakura Festival
When: 12:30-3 p.m. Sunday
Where: Baker Ballroom
Admission: $7 with lunch box and will be sold at ISFS and Baker Center
