If you are visiting Japan in the spring, you can't possibly miss Cherry Blossoms. The most celebrated symbol of a season for a nation that loves to celebrate its distinct seasons, beautiful cherry blossoms abound for a glorious period in March and April. The blooming schedule is national news, and duly reported with maps and dates by serious reporters to an audience of millions.

Another harbinger of spring, the Japanese Bush Warbler, enjoys just as long a history of being celebrated in Japanese art and culture, but these days plays distant second fiddle to the iconic pink blossoms. As Japan becomes more urbanized and less of the population comes into regular contact with this delightful songbird, its no wonder why. But the Warbler, too, has deep roots in Japanese culture. Its Japanese name Uguisu, lends itself to numerous Japanese place names and vocabulary. Its distinctive call is still used as a shorthand for spring in Japanese media, and the bird has graced countless pieces of Japanese art, from poems of the Nara period to ukiyo-e prints. Even its droppings enjoy a life of their own as a skin-whitening treatment!

While it can be rare in Japan's largest urban centers today, the Japanese Bush Warbler can still be found (or rather, heard) in great numbers all over the country. Its gentle green color and playful hopping is pleasant to see, but it can be hard to lay eyes on as it hops about in thick foliage. You are much more likely to hear it than see it! Listen for its distinct "Hooo-hokekyo, hooo-hokekyo" whenever you are outdoors! More than any other, it is the bird most truly emblematic of spring in Japan.