A symbol of rebirth: Cherry trees bloom in Japan
© AFP/ Yoshikazu Tsuno Less than a month after the destructive earthquake of March 11, northeastern Japan was hit by a magnitude 7.4 earthquake on April 7. Some people died in the earthquake, but life continues and the seasons cannot be stopped. Spring has come to Japan, which means that the cherry trees are blooming, symbolizing the renewal of life. This year the cherry blossoms are especially poignant for the Japanese.