Cherry Blossom Festival in San Francisco
Two weekends of Japanese culture and celebration.
WHAT:41st Cherry Blossom Festival
WHEN:
Two consecutive weekends: April 12-13 and April 19-20, 2008
WHERE:
For the most part, the 90-plus events and activities will be based at the Japan Center.
Located in Japantown @ Post and Buchanan Streets, the Japan Center is rarely not-busy. A five-acre complex, it offers a central location for shopping, dining, and hotel accommodations. The five-story pagoda found in the Peace Plaza is the center's main architectural structure. A photo-op stop for sure.
During the Cherry Blossom Festival, this center of activity is even more so, with some 200,000 people visiting over the four days.
WHAT to EXPECT:
The festival is a colorful, lively display of Japanese culture. No matter which day you choose to go, you should find a swirl of things-to-do and see:
- Japanese traditional arts and crafts fair
- Children's village (Kids Zone)
- Food bazaar on Webster Street
- Demonstrations: classical and folk dance
- Demonstrations: martial arts combat
- Demonstrations: taiko drummers
- Demonstrations: tea ceremonies
- Saturday, April 12: 2008 Cherry Blossom Green Program, 7 p.m. – 10p.m. ($25 general admission)
- Sunday, April 20: The GRAND PARADE, 1p.m. – 3p.m. (Free!)
- Official schedule: 1, 2
ADMISSION:
Most all events/activities are free. The exception is the food bazaar, located on Webster Street, which will surely have some free samples, but for the most part, it's a buy-and-try area. And there will certainly, as is the case every year, plenty to delight foodies. From sushi to teriburgers, you'll find them at the bazaar. Also, for vegans and vegetarians, don't worry, there's bound to be some noodles and vegetables for us, too!
GETTING THERE:
With so many people visiting one 5-acre area, it's probably best to avoid parking. Indeed, public transportation will/can take you there: Muni buses 38 Geary, 2 Clement, 3 Jackson. However, for those who do drive, there are two indoor parking garages at Japan Center, which are very convenient, though likely to be filled quickly.
COMING UP:
Also, circle your calendars. If you happen to not be visiting the city this April, but perhaps later in the year, keep in mind a few other celebrations in and around Japantown:
- Asian Heritage Street Celebration (May 17)
- Nihonmachi Street Fair (August 9-10)
- Aki Matsuri (Fall Fest in October)
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