The 56th Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival First Weekend

On April 8 and 9, the first weekend of the 56th Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival was held in San Francisco’s Japantown. Consul General Noguchi attended the Opening Ceremony and Queen Program, and the Consulate operated its information booth, distributing materials and information on Japanese culture, travel, study abroad opportunities, and the JET Program.
 
The Festival will continue on Saturday, April 15 and Sunday, April 16, culminating in the Grand Parade on Sunday.
More information about the 56th Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival

1) Opening Ceremony

On Saturday, April 8, the opening ceremony of the 56th Northern California Cherry Blossom Festival was held in San Francisco Japantown’s Peace Plaza. Consul General Noguchi joined the ceremony along with San Francisco Mayor London Breed, District 5 Supervisor Dean Preston, leaders of the Northern California Japanese and Japanese American Communities, and Japantown Organization representatives.

2) Queen Program

On the evening of Saturday, April 8, the festival’s Queen Program was held at Cowell Theater. Consul General Noguchi gave remarks, commenting on the importance of the Queen Program as a gateway for participants to deepen their understanding of Japanese culture and take active roles in the Japan-California relationship. Ms. Hannah KC Mukai was crowned the 2023 Cherry Blossom Queen.