Sakura is an important part of the daily life in Japan, not only through its flowers but also through derivative products. The wood is valuable and it is used for expensive furniture and decorations, the sakura leafs are used for confectioneries (sakura mochi), while the flowers, especially those of the sakura kanzan species, are conserved in salt, for a delicious traditional tea.

In the hot water, the flower seems to bloom again, giving off a fine smell. The sakura tea has a fine aroma and flavor and can be served anytime, but it also used for special, wedding related celebrations, like the sachet from this photo, sold at the Heian Shrine in Kyoto.

Sakura tea, Heian Jingu

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Yesterday’s Japan Photo: Sakura and Japanese Castle Manhole Cover