Rolls-Royce unveils one-off Phantom Cherry Blossom to honour Japan’s Sakura season

Cabin Mimics Sakura Experience: The rear interior is designed to feel like sitting beneath a cherry blossom tree during Hanami. The bespoke starlight headliner includes over 250,000 stitches to create embroidered cherry branches. These branches extend from the back of the cabin toward the front. Crafting this headliner alone took six months, with three weeks spent on the stitching process.

3D Embroidery Innovates Design: For the first time, Rolls-Royce used three-dimensional embroidery in this Phantom. Cherry blossoms on the headliner, door panels, and privacy divider are made by layering thread to form self-supporting petals. Artisans shaped each petal by hand before stitching it into place. This technique adds depth and texture to the interior.

Stitching Reflects Japanese Craft: The embroidery uses an offset tatami stitching method, inspired by traditional Japanese weaving practices. This approach gives the cherry branches a rich, textured look. One artisan carefully joined 11 separate embroidered sections. The result is a continuous design that flows smoothly across the cabin.

Petals Capture Light Beautifully: Each cherry blossom petal is satin-stitched to reflect light from different angles. This creates a sparkling effect, similar to a gemstone, throughout the rear seating area. The falling petal design also appears inside the bespoke umbrellas stored in the car’s doors. These details enhance the overall theme.

Three-Year Project for Client: The Phantom Cherry Blossom took three years to complete, starting with meetings between Rolls-Royce artisans and the Japanese client. It reflects the client’s personal memories of Hanami gatherings with family. Delivered in 2025, it coincides with the 100th anniversary of the Phantom nameplate. The car showcases Rolls-Royce’s focus on custom design and storytelling.

Symbolism Ties to Culture: In Japan, cherry blossoms represent the short-lived nature of life and the arrival of spring. Hanami is a centuries-old custom where families and friends meet under blooming trees for picnics and celebrations. The client wanted to capture these moments as a legacy for future generations. Rolls-Royce combined this cultural meaning with skilled craftsmanship and modern techniques.