If you ever wondered when is the perfect time to visit Japan, the answer is very simple: anytime. But there is particularly one time of the year when Japan puts on its finest attire. It is in the springtime, from March to May, when the cherry trees bloom all over the country. In Japan, this period of time is called Hanami, or also known as the Cherry blossom festival.
Hanami, a centuries-old Japanese tradition of blossom viewing has its great significance. In old times, it represented the custom of welcoming spring and enjoying the beauty of flowers, especially sakura (cherry) or ume (plum) tree flowers. Nowadays, in this busy world of ours, it gathers families and friends under one cherry tree, making them relax a bit, and spend quality time with their loved ones.
The festival dates change from place to place and from year to year and are usually determined with reference to cherry blossom. This beautiful awakening of nature symbolizes new beginnings and it is the number one attraction to the tourists.
But if for some reason, your path doesn’t take you to Japan, don’t worry! Cherry blossom festival isn’t only celebrated in Japan, but in the whole world: Taiwan, Korea, The Philippines, China, USA, Georgia, Finland, and Italy.