June 6, 2022
COMMUNITY
THE ASIAN REPORTER n Page 13
Yes, the
Grounds
of Our State
Capitol Are a
State Park!
State Capitol State
Park flanks the
Oregon Capitol and
includes the Capitol Mall
with its many historic markers
and fountains. But probably the most
memorable feature of the park are its
cherry trees. Two aisles of trees flank
the walkways that hem the Mall on either
side, enveloping park guests in shade and
greenery for most of the year. And, if they arrive
in springtime, visitors might even lose themselves
within billowing, pink frills of cherry blossoms.
Why Cherry Trees?
The significance of the park’s cherry trees changed over the years.
They still represent an important Willamette Valley crop, but one whose
significance declined as many local orchards gave way to vineyards and
wineries. Today, the cherry trees also host Japanese-style Sakura events,
allowing Oregonians to appreciate their flowering beauty during an
unhurried stroll or even from a picnic blanket spread beneath the
branches. The trees grew to honor Oregon’s strong connections with
Japan, including Oregon’s many Japanese sister city relationships
(27 cities in Oregon and southwest Washington currently have
Japanese sister cities).
Celebrating 100 Years of Oregon State Parks
This year, as we look back on 100 years of Oregon State Parks history, we’re
proud to see how the parks continue to evolve. In the case of State Capitol State
Park, the iconic cherry trees not only remind us of a historically important local
crop, but they help us explore a more international and inclusive future. When
you play lottery games, you help provide our state parks with the funding they
need to step into their next century. Thank you for helping us celebrate both their
rich history and their bright future!
Learn more at: oregonlottery.org/programs/state-capitol-state-park/
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