The custom of cherry blossom viewing took hold during the Edo Period. The somei-yoshino cherry tree, seen in groves throughout Japan today, was originally an ornamental garden variety raised in the village of Somei near Edo. Cherry blossom viewings were also an opportunity for Edo denizens to meet one another, present themselves, and perform: matching fancy kimonos were worn for the occasion, and people sang and danced to celebrate the coming of Spring. The captivating scent of cherry blossoms heralds Spring's arrival.