Spring finally creeps through the Northern Hemisphere

After a long winter marked by extreme weather - including snow storms in unusual places - the first signs of spring are slowly appearing in Europe and Northern Asia.

The appearance of cherry and almond blossoms are tempting people to get out and visit parks to admire the blooms and snap pictures. In Japan in particular, the cherry blossom season is particularly symbolic. Lasting only a week, it's a highlight in the nation's calendar.