Why do people picnic under cherry blossoms in spring?
From late March into April, people spread blue sheets in parks and eat and drink beneath cherry trees in full bloom. At popular spots, some reserve space early in the day. Spring weather forecasts also report the progress of the “cherry-blossom front.”
Japan has a long tradition called hanami, in which people gather beneath spring cherry blossoms to enjoy food and drink. It is cherished as a spring event for socializing while appreciating the blossoms and the arrival of the season.
Why — five layers
Cherry blossoms bloom only briefly and soon fall. This transience is part of their appeal and connects with mono no aware, the Japanese aesthetic sensitivity to beauty in things that change and pass.
Hanami is also an opportunity for families, friends, and coworkers to gather. In hierarchical groups such as companies, younger or junior members may arrive early to reserve space and handle preparations.
The blossoming roughly coincides with Japan's April start of the school and fiscal year, tying the flowers to fresh starts.
Weather companies and media publish blossom forecasts, while shops offer seasonal cherry-themed products. The timing of the bloom becomes a major nationwide topic every year.
International view
Many places celebrate spring flowers, such as tulips in the Netherlands or bluebells in Britain. Japan's hanami is a long-established spring event in which people gather under cherry trees to eat and drink while viewing the flowers. Today, cherry-blossom festivals are also held worldwide, sometimes around trees gifted by Japan.
But not always
Hanami takes many forms. Some people eat and drink under the trees; others view them while walking. Rules differ by location, and food, alcohol, or ground sheets may be prohibited, so check in advance.
What to do
For a hanami meal, bring a ground sheet and trash bags; many places have no bins, so take waste home. Do not break branches or climb trees, as this can damage them and cause disease. Popular spots fill early, especially on weekends.
Sources
- Japan Meteorological Corporation sakura forecast
- general ethnographic accounts of hanami
Still curious about something?
Suggest another question for a future Omusubi guide.