Tradition, cherry blossoms, and photography are three things that are commonly celebrated this time of year by many people in Taiwan.
Springtime and Chinese traditional culture go together like chicken and rice. For centuries, the springtime has been celebrated in Chinese culture as the season to bring prosperity and new beauty. The word ‘Dao’(到/倒) in Chinese can translate to two things, one being ‘has arrived’ and the other being ‘upside down’. This interesting translation leads people to take the Chinese characters for Spring (春)and good fortune(福) and turn them upside down, in an act to symbolize that the springtime has come and fortune will arrive shortly. Moreover, it is considered to be a time of year that brings good luck, long life, and new beauty and therefore is considered the most important season within Chinese Culture.
Countless numbers of people braved the journey to the top of Yangming Mountain this past weekend to catch a glimpse of plentiful cherry blossom trees. With a rich photography culture, Taiwanese and foreigners alike jumped at the opportunity to preserve these flowers photograph form. Besides professional photographer, an energetic group of travelers and photographers organized by CollinsCamera also made the trip to take advantage of this beautiful opportunity to take some photographs and meet some new friends. Events organized by Taipei City Government also included providing extra transportation and resources for people on the mountain to enjoy the flowers more conveniently.
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Photos 1-2: Aaron - 3-4: Chris Collins