Hotel & Tours Group

From late March to early May each year sakura (cherry blossoms) bloom all over the islands of Japan; a stunning sight that makes it an attractive time for traveling. The Japanese pay close attention to the blossom forecast which is announced by the Meteorological Agency and then plan Hanami or flower-viewing-parties beneath the sakura trees. These are enjoyed during the day or at night, and involve the gathering with families and friends to eat, drink and sing.The sakura blooms for a very short time before falling and is thus considered a symbol for the transience of life. The custom of Hanami dates back many centuries - perhaps even to the third century.

There are many favorite spots among the Japanese which are considered prime viewing areas. One is Ueno Park in Tokyo, located a few steps from Ueno Station, which features 1,000 trees and does not have an entrance fee. Shinjuku Gyoen is another, just a five-minute walk from Shinjuku Station, and the park also boasts more than 1,000 cherry trees of over a dozen varieties. Entrance fee is 200 Yen. Sumida Park (close to Asakusa Station) stretches for a few hundred meters along both sides of the Sumida River, and Hanami can be enjoyed on land and from boats in the river. In Kyoto (Hotels Kyoto) the most popular public park for cherry blossom viewing is Maruyama Park, with a large weeping cherry tree that is lit up in the evening as its centerpiece. The Philosopher’s Trail starting at Ginkakuji Temple is lined by hundreds of cherry trees, and a cherry blossom festival is held on the grounds of Daigoji Temple every year.