Picnic under the cherry blossom
The cherry blossom (sakura) is a true icon of Japanese culture. The exuberant flowering is only short-lived, and is therefore a symbol of the transience of beauty and the fragility of existence. At the same time, the Sakura announces the beginning of spring (as the start of the cycle of the four seasons). The flowering period is also a symbol of hope and a new beginning.
The flowering of the cherry blossom begins on the Okinawa Islands in the far south (January/February), and then moves as a front to the north (March/April/May). Japanese people live towards this period, accurately keeping track of the predictions for the opening of the cherry blossom season in their region. When the time comes, and the branches are heavy from the pink blossom, Japanese head out for a festive picnic (hanami) in the city parks, and for walks in landscaped gardens and nature reserves.
It's a busy time full of festivities. Hotels and public transport are fuller than usual. Careful planning is desired, and in addition you need a bit of luck, because climatic conditions determine when the first blossoms bune. The reward is great: the season of cherry blossom is undisputedly one of Japan's natural and cultural highlights.
