Orkney receives Japanese gift in time for Christmas

Orkney has become the most northerly location to receive a gift of cherry blossom trees from a friendship project between Japan and the UK.  

The Sakura Cherry Tree Project aims to plant 10,000 trees across the country.  

Orkney has received 30 of the trees which have been distributed across schools in   Kirkwall, Sanday, Eday, Shapinsay and Stronsay. 

The Orkney Japan Society applied for the trees two years ago, and they arrived in Orkney last week.  

Kirkwall Grammar School has already received two trees from this project in 2019 which one has already flowered -  proving that they can survive Orkney’s weather. 

Kirkwall West Councillor and member of the Orkney Japan Association, Leslie Manson, said:“We welcome the gift of 30 Sakura cherry blossom trees to Orkney. The donation reflects the strong links forged between the Orkney Japan Association and the Japanese Embassy in Edinburgh. The trees will be planted across parks and schools in Kirkwall, Eday, Stronsay, Sanday and Shapinsay providing a very welcome splash of colour when they flower.” 

Orkney Japan Society are also calling on people to share information and pictures of cherry blossom trees in Orkney, to be part of a celebration in the spring next year. 

They ask that photos be sent to info@orkneyjapan.com and to let them know if you’d like to participate in of their cherry tree adventure.