Page 38 - Turkinsurance Digital Magazine

38 cultural outlook

Follow Spring in Istanbul Through the

Colors of Flowers

Spring in Istanbul is experienced through the blooming of Ju- er-filled streets in Büyükada, Heybeliada, and Burgazada are
das trees adorning the Bosphorus in April, tulips blossoming in classic activities.
Emirgan and Gülhane, bicycle tours in the Princes’ Islands, and
walks in natural wonders such as Atatürk Arboretum. To find • Sakura and Special Gardens: In early April, Baltalimanı
your way, you don’t need maps—just follow the fragrant scent Japanese Garden and Nezahat Gökyiğit Botanical Garden are
of flowers. Let’s draw together this colorful route to follow in ideal for viewing cherry blossoms (sakura).
Istanbul during the spring months.
• Historical Routes: Walks in Kuzguncuk, Çengelköy, and
• Flower and Color Routes: In April, Emirgan Grove, Gülhane Pierre Loti Hill offer a sense of peace in the spring atmosphere.
Park, and Sultanahmet dazzle with tulips, while in late April/
early May, Fethi Paşa Grove, Yıldız Park, and Rumeli Fortress Baltalimanı Japanese Garden
captivate with the purple-pink clouds of Judas trees.
For those who not only love nature but also turn it into an el-
• Nature Walks and Parks: Atatürk Arboretum, Belgrad For- egant passion, the sakura season holds a special place among
est, Polonezköy Nature Park, and Kemerburgaz City Forest are their dreams. Yet, there is no need to travel to Japan to be cap-
perfect for exploring nature awakening in spring. tivated by landscapes adorned with cherry blossoms.

• Bosphorus and Scenic Views: Otağtepe Fatih Grove, Mihra- In 1972, Istanbul and the Japanese city of Shimonoseki were
bat Grove, and Çamlıca Hill are among the best spots to enjoy declared “sister cities” due to their similar coastal character-
panoramic views of the Bosphorus. istics. On the occasion of the “Year of Turkey” celebrated in
Japan in 2003, this 6,000-square-meter Japanese Garden was
• Princes’ Islands: In spring, cycling and walking through flow- established in Baltalimanı as a gift from Shimonoseki. The gar-
den creates a serene atmosphere with sakura trees, waterfalls,

Atatürk Arboretum