Text by Alex
At Shasakigami Shrine in Shiga Prefecture, Japan, there is a very famous tree that bursts into full white blossom every early summer from late April to mid-May, looking from afar as if covered in a layer of snow. Unfortunately, the blooming period lasts only about 7 to 10 days. If you miss it this year, you’ll have to wait until next year to see it.
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It is said that in 1988, the shrine’s chief priest (guji) was given the sapling by a friend, who then planted it at its current location as a symbol of the temple. The sapling is said to have ties to Ise Grand Shrine, and there are currently nine such trees planted within the shrine grounds. Since this type of tree is not very common in Japan, many people are unable to name it.
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Upon researching, this tree is called a fringe tree in Chinese, with the scientific name Chionanthus retusus. It gets its name because its slender, torn petals resemble the tassels on the clothing of ancient noblewomen. It is also nicknamed "April Snow" because it blooms after the Qingming Festival. The fringe tree is native to China, Taiwan, Korea, Japan, and other regions, and is commonly used as an ornamental plant in gardens.
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As for Shasakigami Shrine, it also has a notable history. Located within Chōraku-ji Temple in Omi-Hachiman City, it is the birthplace of the Sasaki family, which has a population of 3 million in Japan. The shrine still enshrines their ancestors and various deities, with the main deity being Sukunabikona.
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Sources: Chūnichi Shimbun, Wikipedia