Orkney has become the most northerly place in the UK to receive a gift of cherry blossom trees through a national friendship project linking Japan and Britain.
The islands have received 30 Sakura cherry blossom trees, which are now being distributed across schools and communities in Kirkwall, Sanday, Eday, Shapinsay and Stronsay.
The donation is part of the Sakura Cherry Tree Project, an initiative aiming to plant 10,000 cherry trees across the UK as a symbol of friendship and shared culture.
The Orkney Japan Society applied for the trees two years ago and confirmed the shipment arrived in Orkney last week, landing in time for the festive season.
Kirkwall Grammar School has already had success with the project after receiving two trees in 2019, with one already flowering, offering early proof that cherry blossom can survive and thrive in Orkney’s challenging weather.
Kirkwall West councillor Leslie Manson, who is also a member of the Orkney Japan Association, said the donation reflects a growing relationship between Orkney and Japan.
“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.”
The Orkney Japan Society says the trees are more than a seasonal display and hopes they will become a lasting part of local places where young people learn and communities gather.
As the islands head toward spring, the group is also planning a wider celebration next year.
They are encouraging people to share information and photographs of cherry blossom trees already growing in Orkney, helping build a picture of how the trees are spread across the islands and how they cope with local conditions.
Residents who spot blossom or know of existing trees are being asked to send photos and details to info@orkneyjapan.com, and to let the society know if they would like to take part in the cherry tree project as it grows.
For many, the idea of cherry blossom in Orkney carries a quiet kind of magic, a reminder that even in the far north, colour still arrives, and friendships can take root in unexpected places.
