With over 40,000 cherry trees bursting with pink and white blooms throughout Vancouver, many would agree that spring is the most beautiful season for the city. Not only have these trees become a symbol of Vancouver; they are an important link to the history of the city as well. In 1930, Japan presented over 500 cherry trees as a gift to Vancouver to honour the Japanese Canadian soldiers who served in WWI. Since then, these trees have shaped the landscape of the city and continue to be planted throughout the Lower Mainland. Having lived in Japan for 2 years, I have to say our blossoms are outdone by theirs but cherry blossoms are beautiful wherever you find them.
If you are interested in viewing these stunning cherry blossoms this April, here is a list of the best areas in Vancouver:
Kitsilano Beach Park
Take a stroll through Kitsilano Beach Park near Vanier Park and see the beautiful trees in bloom. West of the Kitsilano Showboat, you will find a gorgeous Spire cherry tree and on the waterside of the museums you will also find a spectacular pale pink Somei-Yoshino tree. Four white Star cherry trees can also be found hear the H.R. MacMillan Planetarium.
UBC
A secret spot in Vancouver for viewing cherry blossoms is at UBC on Lower Mall road near Place Vanier student housing. You will also find a beautiful cherry tree overlooking the pond at the Nitobe Memorial Garden. This is a perfect place to get away from the business of the city and take-in the stunning views.
West End/Stanley Park
Enjoy the Accolade trees blooming at Chilco mini-park at Comox in the West End. More can also be found on the lower side of the Rose Garden and at the Japanese Canadian War Memorial in Stanley Park.
Granville Island
Take a picnic and enjoy the stunning Akebono blooms near the community centre in Sutcliffe Park on Granville Island or go for a stroll near the Shorepine Walk along the False Creek Seawall.
East Vancouver
Take in the spring blooms of the Somei-Yoshino and Akebono cherry trees at the Oppenheimer Park in Strathcona and the Andy Livingstone Park. The Queen Elizabeth Park is also a great location for viewing a wide variety of cherry blossoms.
VanDusen Botanical Garden
Visit the VanDusen Botanical Garden for a spectacular view of the Beni-Shidare cherry trees as well as other ornamental cherries.
If you are interested in Vancouver real estate, this list is a great way to find some of the best cherry blossom neighbourhoods in the city. I also find that there are a lot of incredible blossom lined streets that I stumble upon when driving around to different properties. If you know of any other great locations or secret spots for the trees in Vancouver, please let us know. We would love to spread the word so everyone can get out an appreciate Vancouver’s beautiful spring season!
