The Cherry Blossom Festival season has begun, and the public can see the 12 contestants vying for the title of the 57th Cherry Blossom Festival queen at Kahala Mall today at noon.

To be eligible, the women must be at least 50 percent Japanese.

The women will be making numerous public appearances to teach the contestants values on showmanship and public speaking, as well as increase their knowledge of Japanese culture.

Sponsored by the Honolulu Japanese Junior Chamber of Commerce, the festival's highlight is on March 28, when the new Cherry Blossom Festival queen and court will be chosen.