Hanami: Japan's Cherry Blossom Season

Japan · cherry blossoms · spring · tradition

Cherry Blossom Magic. Hanami celebrates the blooming of cherry trees across Japan from late March to early May, with a special early bloom in Okinawa around mid-January. The word hanami literally means 'flower viewing.'

Blossoms Last Days. Cherry blossoms only stay beautiful for about one to two weeks before falling from the trees. This fleeting nature makes them extra special and precious to people celebrating.

Nationwide Celebration. People all over Japan gather in parks and gardens during hanami to enjoy picnics, parties, and time with family and friends under the blooming trees.

Official Flower Forecast. The Japan Meteorological Agency announces the 'cherry blossom front' each year, tracking when blooms will arrive in different regions. People eagerly follow these forecasts to plan their hanami celebrations.