Tag: spring

Posted on

And Once Again, Cherry Blossom Season Has Arrived

Cherry blossoms in Tokyo are reaching full bloom within March this year. Last year, the blooming was delayed and they peaked in April, but with global warming being a long-discussed issue, this year’s blossoms are once again peaking between March and April.

The cherry blossom front is expected to continue moving northward, reaching places like Kyoto in the Kansai region, as well as the Tohoku region and Hokkaido.

Cherry blossoms have become a quintessential symbol of spring in Japan. Although many kinds of flowers bloom in spring, sakura truly stand out as the iconic representation of the season.

Because the peak viewing period for cherry blossoms is so short, it is often said to reflect the Japanese view of life and death—blooming beautifully and falling gracefully. This fleeting nature resonates deeply with Japanese aesthetics and emotional sensibilities.

During this time of year, people all over Japan gather at famous cherry blossom spots to enjoy hanami (flower viewing). However, in recent years, the crowds have grown so large that it can be difficult to relax and fully enjoy the experience.

That said, you don’t have to visit well-known spots. Some people prefer hidden local gems in their neighborhoods, viewing blossoms from a yakatabune boat along the river, or enjoying wild mountain cherry trees in the hills. Everyone likely has their own special cherry tree they cherish.

As for me, there is a beautiful row of cherry trees near the cemetery where my parents rest, and I plan to quietly enjoy the blossoms there. I imagine my ancestors also look forward each year to seeing those trees in full bloom.

Deeply rooted in the hearts of Japanese people, cherry blossoms will surely captivate us again this year with their stunning beauty. Where will you go to see the sakura this year?

Posted on

Cherry Blossoms : The Symbol of the Japanese Spring and the Start of the New Year

The majority of Japan’s companies and schools begin in April. In comparison to most other countries that start new years in September, a large difference is felt.

Most of the Japanese have willingly accepted this. Of course, it is still an inconvenience to those that wish to attend half-year camps overseas or study abroad. In order to adapt to these challenges, many Japanese colleges and universities have started allowing transfers or enrollments starting in September.

Despite the differing new years, I believe starting a new year as the cherry blossoms and other spring flowers bloom is good for the soul. It is truly the start of a new life, a new path and a new you.

Visiting Japan’s national flowers; the cherry blossoms, is a great thing to do as a tourist.

There are several great cherry blossom sites just in Tokyo, including the Imperial Palace (皇居), Chidori-ga-fuchi (千鳥ヶ淵), Askayama Park (飛鳥山公園), Shiba Park (芝公園) and the Hamarikyuu Gardens (浜離宮恩賜庭園) ,Meguro River(目黒川),Yasukuni Shrine (靖国神社),Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (新宿御苑). The cherry blossoms are especially beautiful at night when lit up by the Roppongi Ark Hills (六本木アークヒルズ). Located in a relatively traffic-free spot right in the middle of Tokyo, this soothing rest stop is a hot spot for tourists in Tokyo.

To the high snowfalls of Hokkaido to the everlasting summers of Okinawa, Japan is a country where sightseeing is possible and tourism is a year-round possibility. For example, in Tokyo and other eastern regions, it is possible to enjoy beautiful sceneries all year long. Japan is definitely not just a country of video games and anime. If the 2D world becomes too monotonous, simply pay a visit to some of Japan’s ancient and healing natural environments.

To those starting to study overseas in Japan, and to those considering working in Japan, I believe the changing of the seasons can heal the weariness of our busy everyday lives. During your stay in Japan, please enjoy the Japanese culture and way of life.

In addition, it may be fun to participate in in Japan’s “Flower Picnic Culture”. During the blooming season of the cherry blossoms, the ground beneath the trees is occupied by many picnic blankets. Sitting below the trees participating in drinking parties or eating a delicious bento (boxed lunch) is part of the “Flower Picnic” event.

Parties are frequently held together with family, friends and colleagues. In countries or states where drinking in only permitted in bars, these parties may seem like a strange scene, but in Japan, it is just another seasonal event. To really experience the Japanese culture, it may be fun to try it at least once. While immersing yourself in the night-time cherry blossoms and the gentle spring breeze, enjoy the Japanese spring to your heart’s content with some close friend.

Sponsor Link