Hanami is a must-do event this sakura season
As sakura season comes along again, we’re constantly on the lookout for new ways to admire these beautiful cherry blossoms. Instead of just experiencing these flowers on a walk, why not opt for the most traditional method: a hanami party!
A highly significant traditional custom of enjoying the beauty of flowers, hanami – which translates to “flower viewing” – usually involves having an outdoor party beneath sakura trees during daytime or at night. A large part of this tradition also involves consideration of the transient nature of these flowers, and admiring their beauty whilst understanding that they will inevitably leave.
Hanami is a huge social event with families, friends, and colleagues – equipped with picnic boxes and blankets – gathering together under the trees to eat, drink and be merry. Popular spots will even have stalls set up selling snacks and drinks.
In the evening, the act of viewing cherry blossoms is called yozakura, with simple lights and lanterns laced onto the branches so the flowers appear to glow in the dark. The event gets more raucous as the moon comes up and the sake slips down.
To best enjoy the experience, pack a picnic blanket and swing by a supermarket to pick up a spring-themed bento box (ankake meatballs, inari sushi, strawberries, red bean mochi) and some limited-edition hanami-themed goodies, such as pink sakura Pepsi, pink Kit Kats, and clear Asahi beer.
In 2024, Japan’s cherry blossom season will start as early as 22 March in Fukuoka, before moving east to Aomori and Sapporo in mid-April.
Tips to make the most of your hanami picnic
1. Check the weather forecast
Some days in spring would be rainy and windy, and it can be really cold. Bring a poncho on cloudy days and warm clothes.
2. Prepare the picnic kit beforehand
Including a plastic/straw mat, portable glass, drinks, wet tissues, and trash bags, these items are available in 100-yen shops. As for food, you can opt for prepared hanami bento sold on most food floors of large malls.
3. Reserve a spot
This can be achieved only by arriving at the spot early before other groups arrive. Spread the mat on the spot, as it will be taken if the owner is not there.
4. Look for a toilet
Note that toilets will be in hot demand in Hanami sites. Alternatives you can find are in shops, restaurants, or hotels nearby.
5. Be nice
The place where you have a picnic has thousands of people gathering. Give a smile and accept “Gomen’nasai” (sorry) when there is an accidental colliding – no one gets angry at a party, after all!
6. Clean up after yourself
Many Hanami sites are not well-equipped with sufficient trash cans. Please do not litter. Sort your trash and take it to where you can dispose.
Cover image via @bokksu, @geishakai, and @orenjijune on TikTok
