Prince Hotel BlogsThe cherry blossom is a quintessential symbol of Japanese culture and the country’s natural beauty, and the custom of celebrating the spring season with cherry blossom viewing parties has been taking place since the 8th century. While cherry blossoms can be seen all over the world, in Japan these delicate soft flowers, and the short period they emerge for, are celebrated with a particular sense of enthusiasm.
The joy and delight of cherry blossom viewing continues to the present day, and you’ll find beautiful cherry blossoms all over Japan, from single trees that are revered for their spectacular blooms, to vast parks and promenades, filled with long walkways of trees that burst into a spectacular sight.
If you’re planning to catch the cherry blossoms in Japan, read on to find out more about some of the best places to see them, and when to go. With fantastic packages available at the Karuizawa Hotel West, it’s the perfect time to plan a visit to the beautiful country, to admire this unique phenomenon.
Cherry blossoms tend to emerge during early to mid-spring, but these dates can vary across the country overall. Due to changes in climate and geography, you’ll find that different areas enjoy the cherry blossom at slightly varied periods, giving people plenty of opportunity to travel and catch them elsewhere.
For those near Karuizawa Hotel West, you can expect to see the cherry blossom around the first week of April. In Tokyo, you may see them a little sooner during mid to late March, while further north, the cherry blossom may not emerge until late April, or even into May.
The cherry blossom season is short and sweet, and typically the blossoms can be seen at their best for up to two weeks after they have begun to bloom. Naturally, this can depend upon the weather, and a rainy or windy period can often cut this short. If you’re planning to visit the Karuizawa Hotel West and want to find out whether or not you’ll be able to see any cherry blossom during your stay, you can often find regular forecasts for the region and whole country, highlighting the best dates to see them.
Along with cherry blossom season, you’ll also find plenty of cherry blossom festivals in every region, where people will often take advantage of the mild, spring days and scenic views of blossom-laden trees, to enjoy a relaxing day out.
A popular activity is known as “hanami”, where people will gather to have a delicious picnic whilst enjoying the sight of cherry blossom trees. This can happen by day or night, as trees are often lit up spectacularly after dark, so that the blooms can be appreciated, even after the sun has gone down.
Picnics in Japan can often be a much more formal and well-organised activity than you might be used to – if you are planning a picnic near the Karuizawa Hotel West, you may want to head out early to identify and secure a good spot ahead of time, as people will often reserve the best viewing locations for their group in advance. In some areas, people may leave a sheet out to mark the space for their group, although this practice is banned in some parks.
As well as picnics, you’ll also commonly find food vendors near cherry blossom spots, where you can find delicious street food snacks and sweet treats. Find a cosy spot to sit nearby, and enjoy a tasty bite, while taking in the charming atmosphere.
Viewing the cherry blossom comes with its own social etiquette in Japan, and to enjoy this gentle and sublime activity, it’s a good idea to pay attention to local cultural norms and expectations.
Cherry blossom trees are revered and treated with awe and respect, so do not attempt to climb or shake the branches to pull down blossoms. If you’re viewing any near the Karuizawa Hotel West, make the effort to avoid climbing or stepping on tree roots.
If you’re having a picnic in a park or other open public space, be mindful of your garbage, and do not leave litter lying around. You’ll often find very well organised garbage and recycling areas, where you can sort different materials with ease. If there are no bins available, take your garbage with you and dispose of it properly.
Finally, be sure to check out any local rules signposted nearby. Many spaces will have restrictions, for example forbidding barbecues, the consumption of alcohol, or curfew times. Paying attention to these can ensure that both you and others around you can have a pleasant and enjoyable experience.
You’ll find cherry blossom all over Japan, but there are some iconic locations that are well worth a visit if possible. One of the most highly renowned is the Ashikaga Flower Park, a popular park located in the Kanto region. This magnificent park is renowned for its vast and diverse flower displays that show off a riot of colour and fragrance throughout the year, including its iconic wisteria blossom tunnels and over-hanging roofs. However, as well as the delicate lilac-coloured wisteria, you’ll also get to see some magnificent cherry blossom trees here, which cluster together to create a spectacular sight.
Another captivating spot is the Meguro River, in central Tokyo. Close to one of the main subway stations in the city, you’ll find a fantastic stretch of cherry trees for over four kilometres, which burst into a beautiful display of pink and white blooms during the blossom season. The blossoms are lit up after dark to create a spell-binding effect, while by day, they provide an amazing and ethereal sight, as they overlook the flowing river below.
Head out there early to find a comfortable spot and enjoy some of the tasty local snacks on sale, while you soak up the wonderful atmosphere of this distinctive Japanese phenomenon.
The cherry blossom is a quintessential symbol of Japanese culture and the country’s natural beauty, and the custom of celebrating the spring season with cherry blossom viewing parties has been taking place since the 8th century. While cherry blossoms can be seen all over the world, in Japan these delicate soft flowers, and the short […]