What's Hanami and why it's so special

You probably know already that Japan is obsessed with Sakura leaves (cherry blossom leaves).

You probably also know that in Spring, all of Japan is covered with beautiful Sakura trees, and we gather to see them.

But why?

I’m about to tell you why Hanami holds a special place in our hearts in Japan.

🌸 What is Hanami

This centuries-old tradition occurs from March to April when Sakura cherry blossoms bloom until they fall. Depending on the weather, leaves can last about two weeks before falling.

👩🏻‍🏫 Meaning

Hanami 花見 literally means “watch at Sakura leaves” but what does it mean, and where does it come from?

This tradition initially came from China during the Nara period and had become popular among nobles by the Heian period. They linked Sakura cherry blossoms to the Fleeting Beauty and used to write poems about it. 

🧑‍🌾 Also, seeing Sakura’s blossoms was a sign to farmers to ready their fields for another planting and harvesting cycle, and it was perceived as a good fortune sign.

It’s also when school begins (yes, we start in April) and new graduates start looking for their first job.

As you can see, Hanami coincides with new beginnings🙌.

How do Japanese people live Hanami?

Doing picnics with friends, family, and even coworkers is very popular. We gather in parks, prepare food to eat together, and we drink🍻!

We have so much fun at Hanami😄.

Read more about 🍁 Kōyō (紅葉), happening in Autumn, where we go see the beautiful autumn leaves that change colors!

Your Sensei,
Hikari 👩🏻‍🏫