The Importance of Japan's Cherry Blossoms In the northeastern United States, autumn is particularly colorful. Leaves change from green to red and orange, and many Americans take scenic fall foliage trips. In Japan, a similar phenomenon takes place in the spring. Cherry trees erupt in a shower of pink, and the entire country celebrates the arrival of sakura, or cherry blossoms. Though autumn leaves are admired in the United States, they are seen as just a pretty seasonal display. In Japan, on the other hand, cherry blossoms have much greater significance; the flowers are deeply rooted in Japan's culture and philosophy. Since as far back as the eighth century, sakura have symbolized change and beauty, new beginnings, and the circle of life. The blossoms have been celebrated in Japanese paintings, poems, and tea ceremonies for centuries. What is the main, or central, Idea of the passage? Japan's spring cherry blossoms often serve as symbols of change or new beginnings in works of Japanese art or literature. Americans appreciate the colorful leaves of fall, but the Japanese view the cherry blossoms of spring as part of their culture.