Late March sees cherry blossoms bursting into vibrant bloom worldwide, including in Washington D.C., United States. The Tidal Basin area is awash in pink and white, drawing crowds to enjoy the spring air.

The timing of Washington D.C.'s cherry blossom season varies annually, significantly influenced by temperatures in the preceding weeks and months.

For years, the National Mall and Tidal Basin, located in downtown Washington about 4 km from the White House, have been popular spring destinations, drawing visitors with thousands of blooming ancient cherry trees.

Nearly 4,000 cherry trees in the National Mall and Tidal Basin area were a gift from the Japanese Government to the United States in 1912. The Tidal Basin features an open, expansive space with direct views of the Washington Monument, surrounded by cherry trees.

US flags flew near the blooming cherry trees on the National Mall last week.

The Tidal Basin also hosts a Japanese pagoda-style stone tower, another gift from Japan presented with the cherry trees over a century ago. This site is a focal point for Washington's annual cherry blossom festival activities. The stone tower was photographed on 30/3.

This year, the blossoms arrived almost 10 days earlier than usual. The festival runs from 20/3 to 12/4. Yoshino cherry blossoms, photographed on 30/3, showed green leaves and some falling petals, four days after peak bloom. The flowers may gradually fade by the second week of April, with heavy rain or strong winds potentially accelerating their decline.

The cherry blossom season is a popular time for many couples to take wedding photos.

Around the lake, many ancient cherry trees extend branches over the water. Last year, embankment repairs necessitated the removal of some trees. For years, the failing embankment allowed water to flood pathways, endangering the tree system. Japan has pledged to donate replacement trees, with new plantings expected to be completed this year, coinciding with the 250th anniversary of the US Declaration of Independence.

Beyond the National Mall and Tidal Basin, cherry blossoms also adorn several nearby streets. Pictured is Senate Park, located within the Capitol grounds, approximately 1 km from the main sites.

By Tam Anh

Photos: Reuters, David Coleman