Gardens By The Bay gets particularly crowded especially when the Sakura season arrived at the Flower Dome. This is actually my first time seeing Cherry Blossoms (or Sakura) and these rosy pink flowers were just spectacular to look and marvel at. You have not seen Sakuras before, you should make a trip down to The Flower Dome to check out the latest floral display, ‘Sakura Matsuri’.
Grab a brochure and go on a Sakura Garden Trail
I was just hanging out at the Information counter at Gardens By The Bay when I noticed that there were these informative brochures on the floral display. I decided to take one and flip through the brochure. It turned out to be a Garden trail guide which provided several interesting facts about Sakuras. There is even a paper crane folding activity within the brochure. So, I highly recommend that you grab one of these brochures before you head over to the Flower Dome.
Upon entering the dome, you will be greeted by a simple floral display of Cherry blossoms surrounding Japanese rickshaws (or Jinriki).
The Flower Dome has over 400 Sakura trees.
You can find the main floral display at the flower field. And there are over 400 Sakura trees that make up the Sakura Matsuri floral display. Like myself, you must be wondering how on earth they could ship over 400 Sakura trees from Japan to Singapore. It is impossible that they cultivate the trees over here since the climate here in Singapore is too warm for these blossoms to grow. In addition, I wonder what happens to these Sakuras once the exhibition is over.
There are many varieties of Sakuras.
There are different varieties of Sakuras – ranging from the simple five-petal blossoms, double blossom Sakuras as well as flowers of varying sizes and shades of pink.
Take a peek through the Marumado Windows
These rounded windows are a distinctive element of traditional Japanese architecture. They naturally frame the scenic view of the peaceful gardens right outside the house. Over here at Sakura Matsuri, they have replicated the iconic views in Japan using bonsai Sakuras and miniatures.
Walk Through the Torii Tunnel
You can enter the viewing gallery via the Torii tunnel. There 15 tori gates lined with Sakura trees. Typically, the Torri gates
Cross the Castle Bridge
This striking red bridge is similar to Hirosaki castle bridge in Aomori prefecture. It is also at this bridge where you can take a picture of yourself against the beautiful backdrop of Sakura trees. You can also spot a few weeping Sakura trees here, where their tree branches will droop down beautifully.
Witness a Japanese tea ceremony at the Tea House
On certain days of the month, Hoseikai from The Japanese Association will conduct Japanese tea ceremonies at the Tea house (or chashitsu). Such tea houses incorporate the traditional Japanese architectural elements like tatami mat floors and sliding doors made of wooden lattice.
Take a picture against the Japanese themed pavilion and Japanese folding screens
Do you know that you can rent a Yukata and ‘pretend’ that you have just been to Japan?
Have a taste of Japan
Round off your Sakura Matsuri experience by checking our Sakura Matsuri: Nippon Street at Flower Dome field hall. You can savour Japanese Street food (like Lavender soft-serve, onigiri and ramen), rent a Yukata ($20 for adults and $15 for children) for taking photos and shop for Japanese snacks and beverages.
Free Guided Tours (Daily)
If you are curious to find out more about Sakuras, do sign up for their complimentary daily guided tours at 11.am and 3.00pm from 9 to 31 March 2019. Each tour lasts for about 15 minutes.
“SAKURA MATSURI” FLORAL DISPLAY (樱花节花卉展)
Date: Saturday, 9 March – Sunday, 31 March
Time: 9am – 9pm
Location: Flower Dome
Details: Admission charge to Flower Dome applies.
