Stunning Beauty of Gorgeous Sakura! Results of the Photo Contest

We held a photography contest on our Facebook page between April 9^th and April 17^th. The winning photo became our Facebook cover photo.

However, there were plenty of lovely photos submitted. Here are some of the ones that we also considered as the winning photograph.

The Winner

First, the winning photo is this one by Thao Nguyen:

It was taken in Aomori’s Hirosaki Park. We chose this photo as the winner because of the composition and the use of color, the gradation from the pink of the flowers to the blue of the river.

The Runners-up

Now, here are some of the other photos we enjoyed in no particular order.

Path of Petals (by Riko Kojima in Hyogo)

This photo was taken by Riko Kojima at the Takarazuka Grand Theatre. The Western-style architecture contrasts nicely with the cherry blossoms. The petals on the floor herald the end of the season and the coming greenery.

Meguro River (by Patrick Alvin Santos in Tokyo)

This photo by Patrick Alvin Santos is a shot of the Meguro River in Tokyo when the lanterns are turned on but the sun hasn’t gone down yet. The contrast of the light blossoms and the dark pink lanterns is quite charming.

Roppongi Hills (by Candy Sakai in Tokyo)

This photo by Candy Sakai is taken at Roppongi Hills and is representative of Tokyo – a modern skyscraper with a traditional symbol of the country, the sakura tree, standing in front of it.

Osaka Castle (by Patrick Alvin Santos in Osaka)

This photo by Patrick Alvin Santos of Osaka Castle as the sun is beginning to set has wonderful warm lighting highlighting the architectural details that peek through the branches.

Tokyo Skytree (by Ace Delicana in Tokyo)

This photo by Ace Delicana has Tokyo Skytree rising up from behind the branches, bringing a similar feeling to the Roppongi Hills photo. The bright pink flowers against the bright blue sky really brings forth the feeling of spring.

Sakura Tunnel (by Gilda Isabelle V in Shizuoka)

This sakura tunnel taken by Gilda Isabelle V. Encarnacion in Shizuoka is beautifully composed, with the green bushes to the left and the deep blue river to the right.

Himeji Castle (by Bee Tiangson in Hyogo)

This photo by Bee Tiangson has Himeji Castle rising above the trees in full bloom. It’s an overcast day, but this picture makes it quite clear why this castle is called the White Heron Castle.

Uminokamichi Seaside Park (by Ardy Tanatan in Fukuoka)

This photo by Ardy Tanatan in Fukuoka’s Uminokamichi Seaside Park has a nice feeling of the relaxation that comes with spending time underneath the blooming trees.

Kenrokuen (by Yudawa Suseno in Kanazawa)

This photo by Yudawa Suseno in Kenrokuen, Kanazawa only has the trees lit up against the darkness. Kenrokuen is very famous so there are many photos of it by day, and this is a lovely take of the garden by night.

Asakusa (by Leima Nibungco Sevilla in Tokyo)

Leima Nibungco Sevilla’s photo in Asakusa prominently features a weeping sakura, which is not often seen. The corner of the temple gate rising behind it gives the photo a dignified air.

Meguro River (by Candy Sakai in Tokyo)

Last but not least is this photo of the Meguro River in Tokyo taken by Candy Sakai. The bright lights and the river reflection along with the deep blue of the sky makes for an interesting color combination.