Question 1: The National Cherry Blossom Festival is celebrated in …
A Washington, DC
B New York City
C San Francisco
The National Cherry Blossom Festival is celebrated annually in Washington, DC, to honor the 1912 gift of cherry trees from Japan. The festival features parades, performances, and stunning floral displays around the Tidal Basin. This year, the festival will include performances such as traditional Japanese drumming (taiko), cultural dance showcases, J-Pop concerts, and martial arts demonstrations.
Correct Answer: Washington, DC
Question 2: Which country has the cherry blossom tree (sakura) as its national tree?
A South Korea
B China
C Japan
The sakura (cherry blossom tree) is Japan’s national tree. It’s a cultural symbol of beauty, renewal, and the fleeting nature of life. Every spring, people celebrate hanami (flower viewing) under the blooming cherry trees, a tradition deeply rooted in Japanese culture.
Correct Answer: Japan
Question 3: Which president accepted the trees from Japan in 1912?
A William McKinley
B William Howard Taft
C Woodrow Wilson
First lady Helen Taft lobbied the president to accept the gift, and he saw the cherry trees as a chance to improve diplomatic relations with Japan. But he was put in a tough situation when the first shipment of trees was discovered to be infested with insects that would be dangerous to introduce to US soil. Given no choice, Taft ordered for the trees to be burned, potentially offending the gift givers. Japan understood and sent a new shipment of younger trees—grown and shipped with extra precautions—which were planted and thrived.
Correct Answer: William Howard Taft