What is Ohanami?
"お花見"
Ohanami is the traditional Japanese practice of viewing and celebrating the blooming of cherry blossoms (Sakura) during spring. This festive occasion involves people gathering in parks, gardens, and along riverbanks to enjoy picnics and parties under the blooming trees.
Ohanami, or cherry blossom viewing, is one of Japan's most delightful and picturesque traditions, signaling the vibrant onset of spring. Every year, as the winter chill melts away, Japan transforms under a breathtaking canopy of Sakura (cherry blossoms). This isn’t just a time to enjoy the spectacular sights; it’s a joyous celebration of renewal and togetherness that brings everyone outdoors for picnics, laughter, and a whole lot of fun.
A Blossom Through Time
Let’s travel back over a thousand years to discover how this beautiful tradition began. Originally, it was the plum blossoms that got all the attention during the Nara Period (710–794 AD). However, by the Heian Period (794–1185 AD), cherry blossoms stole the show with their stunning beauty and fleeting presence. Initially a pastime of the imperial court, the joy of cherry blossom viewing trickled down to the common folk, especially during the Edo Period (1603-1868), when the shogunate started planting cherry trees in public spaces to encourage everyone to join in the fun.
Today’s Cherry Delights
Fast forward to modern times, and Ohanami is a much-anticipated event across Japan from late March to early May, depending on when the cherry trees decide it's showtime. The best way to partake? A lively picnic under the blossoms! Picture this: parks and riverbanks dotted with groups of friends, families, and coworkers, all settled on colorful mats and surrounded by food that’s as delightful as the scenery—think homemade sushi handrolls, variety of rice balls, and refreshing drinks and sake.
In city hearts like Tokyo and Osaka, spots like Ueno Park and Osaka Castle Park buzz with thousands eager to snag the best spot under the pink blossoms. As the sun sets, the fun doesn’t stop. Many places light up the trees in the evening for Yozakura, or "Night Sakura," where the flowers glow magically against the night sky, creating a whole new vibe for nighttime revelers.
What’s in a Blossom?
But hey, cherry blossoms aren’t just a feast for the eyes! They hold deep meaning in Japanese culture. These delicate flowers are a reminder of life’s fleeting beauty—a core idea in Buddhist thinking. They tell us to live in the moment and appreciate every second before it slips away. As spring also marks new beginnings in Japan, with the start of the school and fiscal years, cherry blossom season is the perfect time to reflect, refresh, and set new goals.
The cherry blossom season also sparks a significant tourism boom. People from all over Japan, and indeed the world, travel to soak in this unique experience, greatly benefiting local businesses and cultural festivities. Cities and towns are alive with festivals that showcase traditional music, dance, and a bounty of local treats, making it a festive period for everyone.
In Japan, Ohanami is more than just looking at flowers. It's about pausing to enjoy the beauty around us and spending quality time with those we care about. It’s about feeling a sense of community and starting fresh. So, if you ever find yourself in Japan during cherry blossom season, dive into this wonderful celebration—grab a mat, pack a picnic, and join in the fun under the Sakura trees. It's an experience that beautifully captures the spirit of Japanese culture and one that will fill your heart with joy and your spirit with a sense of renewal.
