'Hanami' literally means flower-viewing, but it actually refers to picnic parties that appear under the blooming cherry trees all across Japan every spring. Grace from Texan in Tokyo offers us her Top 9 reasons to love them!
Cherry blossom viewing parties aren't just an excuse to get drunk in a public place, but a traditional practice of celebrating the coming of spring that has become an important part of Japanese custom.
Since northern Japan gets its cherry blossoms later than the rest of the country, even if you've missed the first round of 'sakura' to the south, you can often catch late blooms in Tohoku and Hokkaido as late as the end of April or even early May.
Do you know your 'sakura' vocabulary?
Before you step outside for 'hanami' this year, be sure to check this guide to a few of the most beloved types of cherry blossom in Japan!
Japanese culture is deeply tied to nature, and there's no better time to appreciate the Japanese wilderness than cherry blossom season.
From castles to riverbanks, Osaka has some amazing spots for viewing cherry blossoms with your friends and family. Check out these sites during your next visit!
Get to know the beauty of Japan on an 11-day, all-inclusive tour with a licensed English-speaking guide!
