Let’s be real: What better way to experience Japan’s most famous parks, shrines, gardens, and scenic locales than under a canopy of brilliant sakura? And if you’re reading this post, then chances are you’re convincing yourself to do a Hanami in Japan. As someone who has been in Japan during this time of the year, trust me when I say that you’re going to miss out a LOT if you don’t do this.
Why? Well, allow me to explain more in the sections below. Oh and watch out because I’ll also share with you some useful words in the Japanese language to truly appreciate this season
Table Of Contents
Is It Sakura Or Hanami?
It is hanami, not sakura.
Sakura refers specifically to the cherry blossom flowers themselves. Hanami is the Japanese tradition and cultural practice of viewing and celebrating the blooming of the sakura flowers.
So while sakura is just the name of the flowers, hanami encompasses the ENTIRE custom and activities surrounding cherry blossom viewing in Japan. This includes having picnics and parties under the blooming trees, admiring their fleeting beauty, and participating in various sakura-themed festivals and events.
What Is Hanami?
Hanami (花見) refers to the Japanese tradition of flower viewing. Specifically, it revolves around the blooming cherry (桜, sakura) and plum (梅, ume) trees. During this time, the locals eagerly anticipate the blooming forecasts by Japan’s Meteorological Agency. Why is this important, you ask? Well, those planning hanami should watch this forecast carefully since the blossoms only last roughly a week or two!
How To Hanami?
Hanami typically means picnicking underneath the beautiful cherry blossoms. But before you march to your nearest cherry trees, you must be armed with some of the basics. First, you’ll need a picnic mat to stake out your spot. These cheap mats can be found at thrift stores and discount stores like Daiso or Don Quijote for around 200 yen. Just be sure to get one early as they sell out fast at the best viewing areas.
Don’t forget disposable plates, cups, chopsticks, and napkins so you can properly dig into all that delicious hanami food. But if you’re planning to go to cherry blossom viewing alone, it would be best to bring your own bento boxes instead. Traditional hanami foods like dango (sweet rice dumplings), kashipan (baked bread treats), and chilled sake are essential.
If you plan to stay into the evening hours when the trees are illuminated, I highly recommend bringing a blanket or jacket. The temps can really drop after sunset. But staying for “yozakura” (night cherry blossom viewing) is an amazing experience that locals highly recommend.
What To Wear To Hanami Celebrations?
Hanami festivities present different outfit choices. Some choose to go all-out in traditional Japanese dress. Others prefer blending in casually with the locals. Ultimately, the decision depends on personal preference.
But if you ask me, the best way to enjoy the cherry blossoms is when you wear traditional Japanese yukata and kimono! For those without their own kimono, rental services offer this option. Many shops provide full kimono outfits for affordable rental fees (usually around 3,000 to 20,000 yen per day).
What Month Is Hanami In Japan?
The best time for cherry blossom viewing (hanami) in Japan is typically late March to early April – the Spring season in Japan. This is when the iconic sakura (cherry blossom) trees reach their peak blooms across most major cities and regions of Japan. The blossom front, or sakura zensen, travels from the warmer southern areas like Kyushu and Tokyo northward through early May.
To catch peak bloom in popular cities:
- Tokyo: Late March to early April
- Kyoto: Early April
- Osaka: Early April
- Hiroshima: Late March to early April
- Sapporo (Hokkaido): Early May
Keeping an eye on the annual cherry blossom forecasts issued by the meteorological agency helps pinpoint the ideal viewing windows for one’s travel destinations. Aim for a week around the forecasted peak bloom dates. The blossoms are typically at their most spectacular for about 7-10 days before starting to fall.
Where Is The Best Place To See Hanami In Japan?
There is no definitive “best” place to see hanami (cherry blossom viewing) in Japan, as it depends on personal preferences. However, some of the most renowned and spectacular hanami spots include:
Tokyo
The parks and gardens of Tokyo offer incredible views, especially Shinjuku Gyoen, Ueno Park, and the Chidorigafuchi moat by the Imperial Palace.
Kyoto
Kyoto’s historic temples and shrines like Maruyama Park, Philosopher’s Path, and the grounds of Heian Jingu provide breathtaking traditional settings for hanami.
Yoshino, Nara
This mountain town is famous for its stunning thousands of cherry trees blanketing the slopes.
Kawazu, Izu Peninsula
Known for its early-blooming cherry varieties, this area is one of the first major places to see cherry blossoms each year.
Hirosaki, Aomori
Hirosaki Castle is surrounded by gorgeous cherry tree-filled gardens and moats that are illuminated at night.
Each region has its own special hanami claim to fame, from enchanting castle grounds to surreal “tunnels” of overarching cherry trees lining riverbanks or streets. The “best” truly comes down to one’s particular vision for their ideal hanami experience and surroundings.
Japanese Words Related To The Cherry Blossom Season
Learning Japanese words related to hanami (cherry blossom viewing) can enhance one’s cultural understanding and appreciation of this deeply rooted Japanese tradition.
Ready To Join The Cherry Blossom Festivals?
Knowing basic greetings, courtesy phrases and ability to read signs/menus in Japanese allows deeper immersion in the local culture and customs during your travels. And the best part? Even a basic Japanese vocabulary helps navigate getting around, making transactions, and asking for directions without complete reliance on translations or guides.
Using a language app like the Ling app can greatly enhance learning Japanese before and during your Japan visit for several reasons:
- Portable Lessons – Ling’s mobile app allows convenient, on-the-go lesson access anytime, anywhere – ideal for applying during travel.
- Multimedia Learning – Ling incorporates written, audio, and visual content for an immersive, multimedia Japanese learning experience.
- Cultural Insight – Ling’s context-rich lessons cover cultural insights alongside language, aiding deeper understanding.
- Tailored Curriculum – Customized curriculums focus on the most useful vocabulary and phrases for your personal goals like traveling.
With features like these, Ling provides an engaging, portable way to effectively pick up survival Japanese to maximize cultural experiences when visiting Japan.
