Every spring, Japanese people gather in parks, surrounded by sakura, and spend time with their friends and family.  Hanami, “flower viewing”, are a Japanese custom that many people enjoy during the months of March, April and May as sakura bloom all over Japan.  The flowers bloom earlier in southern Japan and later in northern Japan. Hanami parties are celebrated both during the day and night time and usually involve enjoying food and drinks as well as Japan’s natural beauty.

(photo by Takuya Nakayama)

The tradition of hanami began with the celebration of plum blossoms rather than the cherry blossoms that are more popular today.  While umemi, plum viewing parties, still occur, they’re not nearly as popular as sakura hanami.  Some older generations still prefer umemi because they have a reputation to attract a calmer crowd while sakura hanami often result in parks packed with thousands of people, often on the younger side, so it ends up being rather loud.  When the custom began, it was exclusive to society’s elite.  But over time, the practice expanded to all ranks of society.  Nowadays everyone is welcome to celebrate the beauty of sakura in one of Japan’s many parks.

Some of the popular Hanami foods include dango (rice dumplings), sake and bento.  But sakura season is also a time when manufacturers cash in on the trend and release limited edition sakura themed products! Some companies, such as Starbucks and McDonalds, are consistent with their seasonal menu items, offering sakura lattes and burgers respectively.  There are surprise products released every year.

Not in Japan during this year’s sakura season?  Check out local sakura viewing opportunities such as in Washington DC or Brooklyn Botanical Gardens.