Japan turns to advanced preservation in time for sakura season

By Kamille Q. Cabreza

A season where outdoor picnics and picture taking under trees with light pink, white, yellow or green blossoms has officially started in Japan. 

Known as “Hanami” or “flower viewing” in English, this tradition in the East Asian country traces back to ancient times, particularly during the Nara period (710-794), when aristocrats come together for a festive gathering called “ume matsuri” to bask in the beauty of plum blossom. 

People in Japan believe that “sakura” or “cherry blossoms” are not just flowers that exhibit beauty but also hope for better opportunities and brighter beginnings. 

The symbolism it holds inspired a local beer and beverage company to safeguard and preserve the historic trees blooming from every March to May of the year with the use of modern technology: artificial intelligence (AI). 

Say Cheese!

Japan’s latest approach combines the Hanami tradition and the functions of AI, thus the birth of “Sakura AI Camera.” 

Kirin Brewery Co. introduced the service on March 17, which was days before the 2025 cherry blossom season. 

People can learn about the age and vitality of cherry trees after capturing their images with smartphone cameras and having the AI do its work to gauge their health. 

Those interested in checking the service may do so for free via a web browser. Its portal guides users on the proper angles before taking the photos. 

The technology will then assess the health and age details of the trees, which rates it on a five-point scale according to its trunk thickness and shape.

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Data from the uploaded images can be used as a helpful tool for local government officials to determine which trees are in need of immediate maintenance, including trimming and pest control.

Such efforts are deemed necessary as the majority of cherry trees in Japan that were planted during the postwar reconstruction era are nearing the end of their projected lifespan.

Keeping the symbol of hope alive

The beer company anticipates that the service will help to ensure a more engaging and appealing celebration of Hanami in the years to come.

A Kirin official told Kyodo News: “People can easily participate in conservation activities,” adding, “We want people to use this as an opportunity to learn about the current situation around cherry blossoms, thanks to Sakura AI Camera”.

Kirin also noted that the service was created after it was discovered that manpower and financial constraints prevent many local governments from gathering the data needed to preserve cherry blossoms.

Taking delight in the beauty and serenity sakura brings to the environment is treated by Japanese citizens as “nature therapy,” notably acknowledging its therapeutic effects, such as offering a relaxing and stress-free space that can strengthen a person’s well-being.

Developing the appropriate initiatives and services to protect these blossoming trees can also promote the establishment of a community that nurtures the concept of history and culture.

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