Falmouth University plants Japanese cherry trees to celebrate UK–Japan friendship

Falmouth University has planted 20 Japanese cherry trees across its Falmouth and Penryn campuses, as part of the nationally significant Sakura Cherry Tree Project. 

The trees are among a gift of around 10,000 that have been gifted to towns, villages, parks and schools across the UK. The initiative forms a legacy of the Japan–UK Season of Culture 2019–2021 and celebrates 150 years of friendship between the two nations. 

Known as sakura in Japanese, cherry blossom holds deep cultural significance, symbolising renewal, beauty and the fleeting nature of life. The Sakura Cherry Tree Project aims to bring this tradition to communities across the UK, creating a “wave of blossom” each spring as trees bloom nationwide. As the trees mature, they will offer moments of seasonal beauty across the campuses, inviting reflection and celebration each spring. 

The planting was celebrated at a special event on Tuesday 14 April 2026 that was attended by Mr Sandy K. Sano, Chairman/Founder of Sakura Cherry Tree Project Executive Committee, Cllr Rob Nolan, Chair, Cornwall Council, Daphne Skinnard, Vice Lord-Lieutenant of Cornwall and Cllr Peter Tisdale, Chair of Mabe Parish Council. 

Professor Emma Hunt, Vice-Chancellor and Chief Executive of Falmouth University, said: 

“We are delighted to plant these beautiful cherry trees on our campuses in Falmouth and Penryn. These trees will not only enhance spaces enjoyed by students, staff and our local community, but also represent international friendship, reflection and renewal for generations of students and visitors to come.” 

The project has already reached more than 1,000 planting sites across all four nations of the UK, from St Ives to Aberdeen, and from Londonderry to Cardiff, as well as locations including the Isle of Wight, the Isle of Man and the Isles of Scilly. Planting will continue through to 2027. 

All of the trees are of Japanese origin, with varieties that have been planted across the campuses selected for their diversity in colour, flowering times and historical significance. The three varieties are Prunus Yedoensis, Prunus Beni Yutaka and Prunus Tai Haku. Each variety blooms in early to mid spring, before the leaves open, producing a profusion of bowl-shaped, single pink or white flowers about 4cm across. 

The Sakura Cherry Tree Project is funded by Japanese businesses and individuals and managed in partnership with organisations including the Japan-British Society. The trees themselves are grown and supplied by Frank P Matthews.