Hanami: The History and Culture Behind Cherry Blossom Viewing

Spring brings in some of the most breathtaking sights across the globe. And the most loved spring blanket in the world is cherry blossoms. Every country has something that makes it lovable and special. It has its own unique sparkle, whether it’s the ancient culture and traditions, the warm community or its delicious cuisine. One such special country is Japan, having its own beautiful tradition called Hanami, which is also known as “flower viewing.” But how did this tradition come about? It is natural that beauty such as that of cherry blossoms’ would be widely admired. But how did it come to be celebrated? Well, this sure is an interesting area to explore, and together we shall. Let us dive into this blog and journey through the history and culture behind cherry blossom viewing!

Viewing the Petals: Significance and Symbolism of Hanami

Hanami, known as “flower viewing,” is not just a mere tradition of admiring the cherry blossom blooming but also an age-old tradition that made Japan celebrate togetherness. As the flowers started marking their place throughout the country, the Japanese found themselves creating their own canvas of cultural beauty that brought all its people together. 

The Japanese embraced the concept of literally smelling the flowers. The blossoms made the people understand and embrace the concept of awareness of life’s impermanence or mono no aware, as it is more commonly known in Japanese. 

Want to know a fun fact? Spring symbolises the beginning of the new fiscal year in Japan. Hence, it is not just the onset of spring, but also the blossoming of new beginnings, opportunity and hope, making it synonymous with growth and prosperity. 

One of the best parts about hanami is togetherness. Something more beautiful than sakura itself is the coming together of people and celebrating a new beginning with friends, family and loved ones. Isn’t it such a wonderful image? Friends, family and loved ones all gather together and take picnics under the tree, in parks and in historical landmarks as you enjoy the traditional food and drink sake. This is the perfect time to relax, laugh and enjoy the gift of nature together as one—fostering love, unity and strengthening of bonds. 

Quick reads: Best months to see cherry blossoms in Japan

How did it all begin? History and origin of Hanami

Hanami is not a recent addition to Japanese culture. In fact, the sakura blooming has been admired through the ages, spreading its roots as wide as the pink cascade spreading its wings throughout the country. Not sure about you, but I am sure interested to find out how the cherry blossoms were commended for through the years and through different eras. So let’s jump into the time machine and travel back in time, shall we?

Nara and Heian Period: Poets Under the Blossoms (794-1185)

Hanami is said to have originated during the Nara Period and Heian Period, where aristocrats gathered under the trees to celebrate ume matsuri or the blooming of the plum tree. These blossoms were an inspiration to many, as poets embraced their aesthetic beauty and wrote wonderful haikus about them. 

Samurai Era: Honour in Bloom (1185-1333)

The era of the Samurais gave rise to a deeper and more valourous meaning behind these gorgeous sakuras. They labelled the cherry blossoms as a reflection of their own lives—short yet glorious. This gave birth to the most important symbolisation of the cherry blossom, the impermanence of life. 

Edo Period: Blossoms for All (1603-1868)

Finally, the most important historical aspect of hanami is the integration of the general public and the Samurais, who were then the highest class of warriors, in the celebration of sakura trees. Shogun Tokugawa Yoshimune proposed for the urban development of planting cherry blossoms in Japan, making the celebration of hanami accessible and cherished by all, just as a celebration should be. This brightened up parks, gardens and other historical sites with a spectacular coating of pink cherry blossoms, breathing charm and beauty throughout the country.

How is Hanami Celebrated Today? Modern-Day Cultures and Traditions

After years of recognition, now hanami is one of the most anticipated events, attracting people from across the globe to witness the allure of the festivities and the cherry blossom’s beauty. You will find iconic and popular cherry blossom spots like Ueno Park, Maruyama Park and Mount Yoshino, among others, flooded with people fighting for the best spots. These sites offer night shows, festive celebrations that include food stalls and Hanami parties. You can also catch several traditional performances, cultural dances, and local festivals during this time of the year, displaying an air of celebration never before seen. 

People gather in groups of their loved ones, spread out a blanket and have a picnic under these sakura trees with bento boxes that are made up of seasonal delights such as sakura-themed sweets, onigiri, yakitori, and hanami dango. Other than that, sake and cherry blossom-flavoured drinks are also must-haves in your picnic baskets.

Nighttime Hanami: Best Spots for Illuminated Cherry Blossoms

Do you know what’s better than admiring the cherry blossoms? Viewing these sakura trees in the night, which is also known as Yozakura or Night Hanami. The sky is filled with paper lanterns, making the night extra magical and romantic. And not just that, the sakura trees have an extra tint of magic in them under the moonlight and under the illumination of these paper lanterns. You get to rent rowboats and give yourself the experience of the “Tangled” movie as you surround yourself with these lanterns and have your entire world lit up with these lights reflecting on the water. Some popular sites for you to make a note of to enjoy nighttime Hanami as part of your Japan itinerary are Chidorigafuchi, Hirosaki Park, Takada Castle Park and Philosopher’s Path. Do not miss out on this Disney-like experience; I guarantee you will not regret it!

Experience the Pink Season with Pickyourtrail

Hanami is more than just admiring and viewing the flowers; it is more than just cherishing the beauty of the charming cherry blossoms. It is an embodiment of cultural celebration—a celebration of the fleeting beauty of life, the coming together of unity and shared relationships, the blossoming of new beginnings and prosperity and the celebration of life itself. So wherever you are in the world, this is not a celebration you miss out on, and that is a definite. We are here to brighten up your trip, just like the cherry blossoms brighten up the entirety of Japan. Book your Japan tour package with Pickyourtrail, and we guarantee a hassle-free trip experience—one as beautiful and enjoyable as the Sakura trees. So do not wait around anymore. Make your bookings in advance to save some extra cash and get discounted prices on your flights, accommodation, and festival tickets!