Western Kentucky University “Celebrate Spring with Ohanami”

On Wednesday, March 26, the first-ever “Celebrate Spring with Ohanami” was held at Centennial Mall on the campus of Western Kentucky University (WKU) in Bowling Green, Kentucky. The Consulate-General of Japan in Nashville also participated in the “Celebrate Spring with Ohanami” and introduced the Japanese culture of Ohanami as well as the JET program at the Consulate's table. Japanese companies operating in Kentucky, NGOs, student groups, and others exhibited, and the event was a great success with many students visiting. Mayor Todd Alcott of Bowling Green also attended the event. Western Kentucky University planted 100 cherry blossom trees in 2006 to commemorate the university's 100th anniversary. The “Celebrate Spring with Ohanami” was held under the cherry blossom trees in full bloom, and many participants enjoyed the brilliant blooms of the cherry blossoms.