Japan’s Ambassador Cherry Trees Collection visit

I am overjoyed to present the Japanese Ambassador’s Commendation to Keele University for its wonderful collection of flowering cherry trees.

For the Japanese people, cherry trees are very dear to our hearts because they blossom at the arrival of spring. When the cherry trees bloom, people go outside to celebrate the end of winter and admire their beauty. Since cherry blossoms last for only about two weeks, we cherish them while they are in full bloom.

When you see cherry trees, please remember Japan. They are a symbol of friendship between Japan, Keele University, and the UK.

In fact, it was thanks to two Keele University students who participated in the Japanese Speech Contest that my embassy first learned about this remarkable cherry tree collection.

I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to Keele University and its students. Many of them are studying Japanese, and they serve as a bridge of friendship between Japan and the UK.

Thank you very much.