Photographers Capture the Fleeting Beauty of Cherry Blossoms

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In celebration of the short-lived but breathtaking cherry blossom season, Vogue magazine asked 11 photographers to share their favorite photos of the iconic pink and white flowers. The resulting collection captures the ethereal, transient beauty of the blossoms in locations around the world, from San Francisco to Copenhagen.

Why it matters

Cherry blossoms hold deep cultural significance, with centuries-old traditions of celebrating their fleeting annual bloom in Japan and other countries. As a symbol of renewal and fragility, the cherry blossom has become a beloved harbinger of spring that inspires awe and wonder each year.

The details

The cherry blossom tradition in the United States dates back to 1912, when Japan gifted the first trees to Washington, D.C. Now, cherry blossom festivals take place across the country, from the nation's capital to San Francisco and New York City. Fans of the blooms often track their progress using interactive maps and share updates with friends, eager to catch the trees at the peak of their flowering.

• The first cherry trees were planted in Washington, D.C. in 1912.
• Cherry blossom festivals are held annually in various cities around the world.