Japan is a country of ancient traditions and stunning landscapes, where each season reveals a different natural spectacle. Among the most cherished experiences is Hanami, a popular event for travelers worldwide.
What is Hanami?
The word "Hanami" (花見) literally means "flower viewing" in Japanese, and it mainly refers to the observation of Sakura (cherry blossoms). This centuries-old tradition sees Japanese people gathering with friends, family, or colleagues under the blooming cherry trees to picnic, chat, and enjoy the festive atmosphere that accompanies this event.
When can you see cherry blossoms?
The cherry blossom season varies depending on the region. It typically starts in the south, in Okinawa, as early as January, and gradually moves northward, reaching Hokkaidō by May. The best months to see the Sakura in cities like Tôkyô, Kyôto, or Ôsaka are March and April.
Japan’s Meteorological Agency closely tracks the blooming forecast, as cherry blossoms last only about a week. The official cherry blossom calendar is usually released in early February.
The history of cherry blossoms and the Hanami festival
Cherry blossoms, or Sakura, have held a special place in Japanese culture for centuries. Their blooming was once associated with agricultural rites. During the Nara period (710-794), cherry blossoms were seen as a sign that it was time to plant rice. The word "Sakura" is thought to derive from "sa," the god of the harvest, and "kura," his dwelling place, symbolizing the tree's importance in beliefs about fertility and prosperity.
The Hanami festival gained popularity during the Heian period (794-1185), when Emperor Saga organized the first cherry blossom viewing party at Kiyomizu-dera Temple in Kyôto. From this time on, cherry blossom viewing became a favorite pastime of the aristocracy and later the samurai.
It wasn’t until the Edo period (1603-1868) that Hanami truly became a festival for everyone. People began to have picnics under the cherry trees, and rows of cherry trees were planted nationwide for all to enjoy. Today, the tradition continues, celebrated with food, sake, and the beauty of nature.
Where to see cherry blossoms in Japan?
Japan offers countless stunning spots to enjoy Hanami, from bustling urban parks to historic temples and serene natural sites. Here are some of the best locations:
Ueno Park (Tôkyô)
Ueno Park is one of the most popular spots in Tokyo for Hanami. Home to over 1,000 cherry trees, it attracts thousands of visitors during sakura season. Families, friends, and colleagues stake out spots under the trees for hours of picnicking.
Shinjuku Gyoen (Tôkyô)
For those seeking a more tranquil atmosphere, Shinjuku Gyoen is a beautiful garden combining Japanese, French, and English landscape styles. With 1,500 cherry trees, it offers a peaceful Hanami experience.
Himeji Castle (Hyōgo)
Himeji Castle, one of Japan’s most beautiful castles, provides a stunning contrast between its bright white walls and the blooming cherry trees, creating a breathtaking scene.
Mount Yoshino (Nara)
For a more immersive natural experience, Mount Yoshino is a pilgrimage site for cherry blossom enthusiasts. It features over 30,000 cherry trees spread across four distinct zones. Though it’s harder to reach near Osaka, it’s considered the most spectacular place in Japan to view cherry blossoms.
Tips for enjoying Hanami
Even though you don’t need to reserve a spot to enjoy cherry blossoms, here are a few tips to make your Hanami experience more enjoyable:
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Choose less crowded spots: Major parks in Tôkyô and Kyôto can get packed during the sakura season. For a more peaceful atmosphere, explore lesser-known locations or venture into rural areas.
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Enjoy Hanami at night: Many parks offer special nighttime illuminations called Yozakura (夜桜), where the cherry trees are lit up, creating a magical and romantic ambiance.
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Don’t shake the cherry trees: Some tourists have developed the habit of shaking the trees to make the petals fall. This is considered extremely rude!