Revelers are enjoying a view of hundreds of cherry trees at the Japan Mint in Osaka, western Japan.

The mint opens its tree-lined avenue to the public every spring. The tradition began more than 140 years ago.

The 560-meter stretch has 340 cherry trees of 141 varieties. The mint has chosen the "Ohtemari" variety as this year's featured blossom. The flowers of this tree resemble balls, with densely clustered petals.

Only about a third of the cherry blossoms were in bloom when the event opened on Friday. Still, some of the early-blooming varieties are now at their best.

A visitor from Kyoto said even the pink buds were pretty and made her happy.

Another woman from Osaka said she was pleased to take photos of the beautiful flowers with her newborn baby.

Bookings are required for admission. More than 240,000 people are expected to visit during the week-long event through April 11.