Turning Japanese

I remember taking field trips to Sakura Square in elementary school. I always found it astonishing that a little segment of Japan flourished so beautifully in the center of Denver. The Far East culture there is so thick that it transports you across the globe effortlessly for as long as...

By Amber Taufen

June 21, 2007

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I remember taking field trips to Sakura Square in elementary school. I always found it astonishing that a little segment of Japan flourished so beautifully in the center of Denver. The Far East culture there is so thick that it transports you across the globe effortlessly for as long as you choose to stay. No wonder it’s known globally as “Tiny Tokyo.”

And when Sakura Square hosts the annual Cherry Blossom Festival — well, that’s like taking a week-long vacation to Japan. Soak up culture today and tomorrow in the square, located between Lawrence, Larimer, 19th and 20th streets; take in dancing, poetry, guitar, storytelling, martial arts, authentic food, tea ceremonies, kimono-wearing lessons, vendors and more. The Cherry Blossom Festival is free to attend, but be sure to bring cash for all the munchies and the beautiful gifts you’re going to want to pick up for everyone on your list. For information and a schedule of performances, visit www.tsdbt.org/cherryblossom.
Sat., June 28, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. & 7-9 p.m.; Sun., June 29, 11 a.m.-4 p.m., 2008

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Amber Taufen has been writing about people, places and things in Denver since 2005. She works as an editor, writer, and production and process guru out of her home office in the foothills.

Contact: Amber Taufen

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Instagram: @polished_amber_taufen