Cherry blossom season Japan is here!

Celebrate cherry blossom season in Japan without the plane fare

As spring approaches the Japanese cherry blossoms begin to bloom, filling the streets with beautiful shades of pink and flocking crowds for a flower viewing spectacle. Cherry blossom season will begin on the 26th of March this year in Tokyo and the flowers usually bloom for a week.

Why are cherry blossoms so important in Japanese culture?

The cultivation and admiration of cherry blossoms have been around since the 8th century and became a yearly pastime for the locals. However, the 14th century was the period when the flowers became an on-trend visit and were transformed into eternal, floral ornaments.

Additionally, the sakura tree holds deep symbolic importance within Japanese culture, as the brief life of each flower represents that nothing in this world is eternal. This has become an important mindset for many Japanese people as the idea of admiring fleeting beauty or also known a ‘mono no aware’, is enriched within many mindsets and the small moments of daily life are aimed to be respected by all.

How to celebrate cherry blossom season

Flower viewings or ‘hanami’, consist of people gathering together to enjoy outdoor parties which are carefully scheduled around the blooming seasons and many streets are illuminated to enhance the beauty of the sakura trees. Family picnics are also a popular celebration option, as many people love to be surrounded by the nature of the blossom trees.

Create your own sakura party from home by gathering your loved ones, filling your home with branches of cherry blossom and cooking up your favourite Japanese dishes!

Shop Sing Kee for a wide range of delicious dishes to share this sakura season