By Michael Powell
Talk about beautiful traditions! Every year, Japan has a cherry blossom festival that is known as Hanami. This word literally translates “looking at flowers.” These festivals are believed to have started during the Nara period of Japan from 710 to 784. Originally, it was only for the upper class. However, Tokugawa leyasu changed that when he had them planted in public places for everyone to enjoy. While the festivals are known as Hanami, the flowers themselves are called sakura. The sakura is also the national flower of Japan.
According to the Japan Cherry Blossom Association, there are nine types of cherry trees but more than 100 varieties. Their colors range from bright white, to a dark pink. Something that is specifically interesting is the fact that some individual trees become famous. For example, the Miharutaki-zakura tree in Miharu is now a national monument and is said to be over 1000 years old.
Today, Hanami is an annual event that unifies the country. It takes place in late March and early April. During this time, people gather together under the magnificent trees to do fun activities like karaoke, dancing, and photography. The festival starts during the day but usually goes into the night where it is called yozakura. The trees are lit by decorative lanterns and lights.
While the blossoms only last for about two weeks, they are seen as a symbol for a fresh start. They also symbolize the Buddhist philosophy that all worldly things change. While the festival is beautiful to look at, the culture and symbols behind it are just as (if not more) amazing!
Sources:
15, Amélie Geeraert / June, and Amélie Geeraert Born in France. “The History of Hanami: The Japanese Tradition of Cherry Blossom Viewing.” Kokoro Media, 25 Aug. 2020, kokoro-jp.com/culture/338/.
“The History Of Hanami: Cherry Blossom Viewing Over The Ages.” Savvy Tokyo, 27 Mar. 2020, savvytokyo.com/history-of-hanami-cherry-blossom-viewing-over-the-ages/.
Mishima, Shizuko. “Everything to Know About Japan's Cherry Blossom Festivals.” TripSavvy, www.tripsavvy.com/japan-cherry-blossom-festivals-1550069.