TORRANCE —?Under blue skies, the City of Torrance held its 11th annual Cherry Blossom Cultural Festival on April 7 at Columbia Park.
After recent rainy weather, families gathered at the park to enjoy arts and crafts and entertainment representing the cultures of Japan and other Asian countries. There were even some cherry blossom buds announcing the return of spring.
A choir of students from North High School opened the day with renditions of “Kimigayo,” the Japanese national anthem, and “The Star-Spangled Banner.” Other entertainment included taiko drumming by Myo’On Taiko and Akatsuki Taiko, a mikoshi procession by Rafu Mutsumi Kai, folk music by Matsutoyo Kai, Chinese folk dance by South Bay Little Angels, and the aria from “Madame Butterfly” performed by the Pacific Opera Project.
Mayor George Chen welcomed the crowd to the festival and introduced city officials including Councilmembers Jonathan Kaji, Bridgett Lewis and Mike Griffiths, Councilmember-elect Dr. Jeremy Gerson and City Clerk Rebecca Poirier.
“Cherry blossoms symbolize a time of renewal and optimism,” said Chen. “They have a quick blooming season and oftentimes we are lucky enough to have it line up with our cherry blossom festival.
“The cherry blossom also symbolizes friend-ship and alliance, As Japanese poet Kobayashi
Issa once said, in the cherry blossoms’ shade there is no such thing as a stranger.”
Consul General Kenko Sone said he often comes to Torrance. He noted that the city celebrated the 50th anniversary of its sister-city relationship with Kashiwa, Chiba Prefecture last year and expressed hope that there will be continued friendship and even more events such in the city, such as sports-related activities.
“Japanese have a very strong connection with Torrance,” he said. “Japanese companies are the number one investor in California and Torrance is the home of many Japanese companies.
“Cherry blossoms are the symbol for the progress and happiness, and I hope you enjoy the cherry blossoms here.”
The annual festival is presented by the City of Torrance Community Services Department. Event sponsors include the City of Torrance, Soka Gakkai International, Torrance Sister City Association, North Torrance Home Owners’ Association, and Torrance Craftsmen’s Guild.
The cherry trees were planted in 2001 by Soka Gakkai International as a symbol of friendships. Columbia Park is also the future home of the World War II Camp Wall, which will list the names of Japanese Americans who were incarcerated. A booth at the festival provided details about the wall and opportunities to support the project.
– Gwen Muranaka