Why Azaleas Are Celebrated in Festivals Across Japan
Briefly

Azaleas, recognized for their vibrant spring flowers, symbolize nature's resilience in Japan. They have been integral to clusters like gardens and temples since the eighth century.
Over the centuries, Japanese horticulturists have developed around 2,000 azalea varieties, showcasing the plant's adaptability from subtropical Fukuoka to the snowy peaks of Hokkaido.
Noted in literature since the eighth century, azaleas became prominent in Japanese culture, often used in temple offerings, demonstrating their historical significance and aesthetic value.
Japanese gardens evolved to incorporate azaleas as undergrowths, emphasizing a balance in landscape design that reflects harmony with natural surroundings.
Read at www.nytimes.com
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