Chasing the Cherry Blossom

by Lowell Sheppard
Lion Publishing
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Buy the Japanese Language Version

A Spiritual Journey through Japan

The flowering of the cherry blossom is a powerful symbol of hope in Japan. The first buds open in the south in March and within six weeks the whole country has celebrated the blossom’s return as a signal of new beginnings; the new academic year begins and young workers traditionally embark on their first jobs.

Intrigued by this unique national celebration, and by Japan’s rapid modernisation in the last sixty years, Lowell Sheppard sets out on a six week adventure through the 2000 mile length of the country, following the flowering of the blossom as it progresses north. Travelling on a bicycle, he experiences at close hand both everyday Japanese life and the glorious visual feast of the blossoms as he visits 100 viewing sites before the season is over. But when it ends, the sense of national disillusionment is tangible...

This intimate encounter with the Japanese at their least inhibited reveals how they are coping with the transition from modernity to post-modernity and asks whether hope is to be found, or whether it is as elusive and fleeting as the cherry blossom.

Reviews

"Biking, food, landscape and perceptive anecdotes make this a curiously enjoyable if idiosyncratic documentary." (Financial Times, 5 May 2001)

"As Sheppard concludes his two-wheeled odyssey he realises that he understands himself much better and has a greatly strengthened faith but that he has hardly scratched the surface when it comes to understanding the Japanese. Nevertheless, this is an enticing journal for anyone wishing to discover more about Japan, its people and one man's trust in God." (Amanda Cameron, Amazon.co.uk)