Now that travel is booming once again, some of us are probably itching for a vacation overseas.
With the iconic sakura blossom season on the horizon, Japan is currently among the most popular tourist destinations.
Image courtesy of Gardens By The Bay
For those eager to catch a glimpse of the pretty pink foliage, you might just be able to do so without leaving our shores.
That’s right — Gardens By The Bay’s annual sakura display has officially returned, complete with torii gates and Pokémon figurines.
And if that isn’t enough to warrant a visit, the display will also feature appearances by Sakura Afro Pikachu, in its debut outside Japan.
From now until 9 Apr, Gardens By The Bay’s iconic sakura display will be open to visitors for its eighth edition.
Here’s what you can expect at this year’s display.
Upon entering the flower dome, you will be greeted by Japan’s recognisable torii gates.
Flanked by sakura blossoms on either side, the gates make for the perfect picture spot with your loved ones.
You can look forward to more than one photo op, as the display’s entryways have also been designed to emulate traditional Japanese houses.
Through the exhibit, Gardens By The Bay wants to take visitors on a sightseeing journey across Japan.
With scenes such as a toy train circling a miniature Mount Fuji, deers gathering on a grassy field, and more, this is one trip you’re unlikely to forget.
The exhibit will also feature four ikebana pieces, meant to invoke a sense of peace and calm through their elegance.
That’s not all — this year, the iconic display will play host to several kinds of Pokémon.
Be sure to capture the moment alongside Bulbasaur, Charmander, and Pikachu figurines — among other first-generation Pokémon.
For the first time since the pandemic, Gardens By The Bay will be bringing back a series of public programmes.
These activities will complement the sakura floral display and give visitors a peek into the world of Pikachu.
For instance, there will be a meet-and-greet with Sakura Afro Pikachu, which will be making its first appearance outside of Japan right here in the Flower Dome.
Its trademark fluffy pink hairstyle will definitely have you cooing over the kawaii of it all.
Lively dance performances will also be put up by several groovy Pikachu mascots at the entrance to the dome.
Aside from that, there will be events for those who are keen to learn more about traditional Japanese culture.
‘Touring Springtime Japan’ allows visitors to learn about Japan’s six key regions and try their hand at mochi pounding.
For those who prefer a more zen activity, there will also be a traditional Japanese tea ceremony.
Do note that these programmes and more are available for a limited time only, and admission charges to the Flower Dome will apply for some.
Those interested can visit the website here for more information.
With a slew of public programmes and a multitude of photo opportunities, this year’s sakura display is sure to be one for the ages.
If all this has sufficiently piqued your interest, here’s how to get there:
Sakura Floral Display
Venue: Flower Dome, Gardens By The Bay
Address: 18 Marina Gardens Dr, Singapore 018953
Date: 11 Mar – 9 Apr 2023
Time: 9am – 9pm daily
Nearest MRT: Gardens By The Bay Station
Don’t hesitate to pop by to get up close and personal with traditional Japan — and Pikachu too, of course.
Have news you must share? Get in touch with us via email at news@mustsharenews.com.
Featured image by MS News.
Mixue will be giving out 1,000 vouchers at each store.
The bubble tea store covered the car wash fee and gave him a new drink.
The man reportedly stabbed her in the face, neck, and abdomen 58 times.
Some netizens felt "nobody" would buy such an unusual combination.
The act was seemingly carried out in the name of a climate activist group.
The baby girl was unresponsive and died in the hospital.