The Sakura Project originated in 1990 with then Ambassador of Japan to Canada, Michio Mizoguchi who wished to commemorate the 125th anniversary of Canada's confederation. Ambassador Mizoguchi suggested a "people's committee" to raise funds which would be used to purchase commemorative Sakura cherry trees to be planted in the National Capital Region. The Ambassador had received advice that there was a species sufficiently hardy to withstand Ottawa's severe winters.
The objective of the Sakura Project Committee , which was formed in 1990 by representatives of the local Japanese and Japanese Canadian communities along with local residents with an interest in Japan, was to donate sakura, the Japanese flowering cherry tree, for planting within the National Capital Region. The trees were intended to symbolise the growing friendship between Canada and Japan and to be a token of thanks from displaced Japanese Canadians who found a home in the Region.
An appeal was made to the community for funds and the response was much better than expected. The initial estimate was to raise about $5,000.00; in fact over twice the target was raised.
The Executive Members of the 1990 Organizing Committee were:
His Excellency Michio Mizoguchi, Honorary Chairman
Mr. Satoshi Hara
Mr. Anthony Tateishi
Dr. Yoshimatsu Amenomiya
Mr. Jim Sasaki
Ms. Mary Anne Stevens
The current Executive Members are:
Dr. Yoshio Tsuchiya
Mr. Jim Sasaki
Ms. Mary Anne Stevens