HANAMI

Hanami is a traditional Japanese custom of admiring the beauty of the blooming cherry blossoms, known as sakura.

This unique ritual symbolizes the fleeting beauty of life and reminds us that every moment is precious. During Hanami, families and friends gather in parks, picnic under the blossoming trees and enjoy an atmosphere of peace and harmony with nature.

Hanami is traditionally celebrated during the spring months when the sakura trees begin to bloom. The flowering period depends on the region - in the south of Japan, in areas such as Okinawa, the flowers appear as early as January, while in the north, such as Hokkaido, they don't bloom until May. The most famous Hanami, however, take place in March and April, when the trees bloom in cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. This season lasts only a few weeks, which adds even more significance and uniqueness to the celebrations.

The Hanami tradition dates back to the Heian period (794-1185), when the imperial court admired flowering trees as a symbol of the coming of spring.

Originally Hanami was associated with plum (ume) trees, but later cherry (sakura) trees gained popularity. Over time, the custom spread to all levels of society and is still an integral part of Japanese culture today, attracting people from all over the world.