WASHINGTON, DC, United States — The Japanese Lantern, a 10-foot tall granite structure, stands among cherry trees at the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC. This traditional tōrō, gifted by Japan in 1954 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of relations, is surrounded by cherry blossoms. The lantern, lit annually during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, is located near the northern end of the Tidal Basin, with views of the Jefferson Memorial visible across the water.
Photograph by David Coleman. The Japanese Lantern at the Tidal Basin in Washington, DC, is a significant cultural landmark and symbol of international friendship. This granite structure, standing 10 feet tall, was a gift from Japan to the United States in 1954, commemorating the 100th anniversary of Commodore Matthew Perry's voyage to Japan, which initiated modern relations. Designed in the style of a traditional Japanese tōrō (stone lantern), the structure features intricate carvings and a pagoda-like top, reflecting Edo period architecture. It is crafted from granite and weighs approximately 4,000 pounds. The lantern's placement among the cherry trees around the Tidal Basin creates a picturesque scene, especially during the spring when the trees are in full bloom. Located near the northern end of the Tidal Basin, the lantern offers visitors views of the Jefferson Memorial across the water. It is lit once each year during the National Cherry Blossom Festival, typically in early April, continuing its role as a symbol of international friendship. The lantern is part of a larger gift from Japan that included 3,800 Yoshino cherry trees, which were planted around the Tidal Basin. This gift was a reciprocation for the 3,000 cherry trees given to Washington, DC, in 1912 by Mayor Yukio Ozaki of Tokyo.
Size: 6706px × 4476px
Location: Tidal Basin, Washington, District of Columbia, USA
Photo credit: © David Coleman | Have Camera Will Travel / Alamy / Afripics
License: Licensed
Model Released: No
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