Stony Brook’s Charles B. Wang Center Celebrates Annual Sakura Matsuri: Cherry Blossom Festival

More than 400 people stepped into a world of wonder and beauty at the Charles B. Wang Center and Japan Center’s Cherry Blossom Festival and were mesmerized by the breathtaking blooming of Sakura (cherry blossoms), a sight to behold with 40 cherry blossom trees in full bloom.

The audience felt the rhythm of Taiko Tides drum ensemble and got lost in the art of ikebana flower arrangements, tea workshops, manga drawing, origami paper folding, bonsai tree exhibit, contemporary Japanese bamboo basket shows, and Sho-do (Brush calligraphy) workshops. They also experienced the thrill of cosplay (costumed role play of a Japanese manga character) and martial art demonstrations by Ryu Shu Kan.

There were also delightful performances featuring the sounds of Zen shakuhachi (bamboo flute), Koto/Samisen Ensemble, and Okinawa Dance. The magic of spring was celebrated with martial art demonstrations including karate, Kobudo (Ancient weapons), and Kendo (Samurai Swordsmanship).

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