Under the cherry blossom trees in full bloom
The Japanese Tradition of Hanami
Hanami is the Japanese tradition of enjoying the transient beauty of flowers, with the most famous being the cherry blossom, or sakura. It’s more than just looking at flowers; it’s a social and cultural event that has been a part of Japanese life for centuries.
The practice of hanami dates back to the Nara period (710–794), but it wasn’t until the Heian period (794–1185) that cherry blossoms became the focus. Aristocrats would write poems and hold elaborate feasts under the blooming trees. Over time, the tradition spread to the samurai class and eventually to the general population during the Edo period (1603–1868).
Today, hanami is a lively, communal celebration. When the cherry blossoms bloom in spring, people gather in parks, along rivers, and in temple grounds to have picnics, drink sake, and enjoy the company of friends and family. It’s a time to relax, appreciate nature, and welcome the warmer weather. The blooming season is short, often lasting only a week or two, which makes the experience all the more special. The fleeting beauty of the sakura is a powerful symbol in Japanese culture, representing the impermanence of life—a concept known as mono no aware.
Many people track the sakura zensen, or “cherry blossom front,” which is the predicted path of the blooming season as it moves from the warmer south of Japan to the cooler north. This helps them plan their hanami parties. At night, some popular spots are lit up for yozakura, or “night cherry blossom viewing,” which offers a different and often magical experience.
Hanami is a beautiful example of how nature and daily life are deeply intertwined in Japan. It’s a moment to pause, reflect, and share a special moment with others.