The annual National Cherry Blossom Festival is being held in Washington. Thousands of cherry trees are in full bloom, attracting crowds to celebrate friendly relations between Japan and the United States.

A park along the Potomac River features roughly 3,800 Japanese cherry trees, making it one of the most famous places for cherry blossom viewing in the US. The trees were first sent to the capital in 1912 by the then Mayor of Tokyo.

The US National Park Service declared that the trees were in full bloom on Friday. The blossoms are now covering the river banks like pink clouds.

On Saturday, many people visited the site to enjoy the nice weather, with some taking photos under the trees and others enjoying drawing.

A visitor from Ohio said it was her first visit and the weather and scenery created a scene out of a movie. She also expressed hope that US-Japan ties and good relations will endure.

Various events, many relating to Japanese food and traditional culture, are scheduled during the period until April 13.