Seasonal Influence of Sakura Trees on Human Health: Evidence From Physiological and Psychological Responses

Abstract

Despite extensive research on the impact of landscape perception on well-being, the influence of urban trees across different seasons remains largely unexplored. This study employed a between-subjects design to assess psychophysiological responses through electrophysiological measurements and surveys. A total of 75 participants observed Sakura trees in three distinct seasonal stages—bare, foliage, and floral—for 3 min. The results showed that viewing Sakura trees with flowers or foliage elicited significantly higher alpha wave activity and parasympathetic nervous system responses compared to bare trees. Additionally, participants in the floral and foliage conditions reported higher levels of well-being compared to those exposed to bare trees. These findings emphasize the importance of incorporating flowering trees into urban planning initiatives to enhance public well-being and highlight the critical role that tree species play in promoting mental and emotional health in urban landscapes.