This wouldn’t be a Japanese culture blog without mentioning sakura (桜). An enduring emblem, it’s much more than cherry blossom or Japan's national flower. From social events to food, sakura is an important and iconic symbol, and holds a very special place in Japanese people’s hearts. It’s even inspired the 2021 Tokyo Paralympics mascot, Someity!
Perhaps one of Japan’s most well known pastimes, hanami (flower viewing) gatherings were originally reserved for the Imperial Court, before becoming popularised by the Edo period (1603 – 1868). In spring, you’ll see groups of friends, colleagues and family gathering under sakura trees to eat, drink and have fun. Think of them as picnics! It’s taken so seriously that you’ll see sakura forecasts on national television, so people can track when sakura first hits the warmer, southern region in January and when it’ll reach Tokyo in late March.
Fancy organising your own hanami in London? West London is a good hotspot for sakura, with Kensington Gardens, Holland Park’s Kyoto Garden and Kew Gardens (above) particular highlights. In north London, check out Cecil Park road in Crouch End and if you’re south, Greenwich Park is a winner.
Images: Hapiku, Shutterstock