A symbol of spring in Japan is cherry blossom viewing. Cherry blossom viewing, where people enjoy gazing at the cherry blossoms, is a classic spring outing. The sight of people gathering with close friends, drinking and chatting under the cherry trees is a familiar sight in spring all over Japan.

However, in many countries, there are laws restricting drinking alcohol outdoors, so the custom of having parties under the cherry blossoms is not widespread. As a result, few people know in detail about the history of cherry blossom viewing and how to enjoy it.

So today, we'll introduce you to the history of cherry blossom viewing and how to enjoy it, so you can enjoy the beautiful cherry blossoms even more.

The History of Cherry Blossom Viewing in Japan

Cherry blossom viewing is a uniquely Japanese culture. Japan is long from north to south, and the cherry blossom season varies from region to region, so it can be enjoyed over a long period of time. Japanese people also value a culture of coexistence with nature, and have developed a custom of appreciating the fleeting beauty of cherry blossoms.

Furthermore, the fact that food is delicious even when cold is suitable for cherry blossom viewing bento boxes, and that eating and drinking outside is common in Japan, are other reasons that support the cherry blossom viewing culture.

Cherry blossom viewing, a symbol of spring in Japan, actually has a surprisingly long history, and is said to have started with plum blossoms, not cherry blossoms. Let's explore the history of how cherry blossom viewing developed into its current form.

The origin of cherry blossom viewing – the Plum Blossom Banquet of the Nara Period

The origins of cherry blossom viewing date back to the Nara period (710-794). At the time, the subject of flower viewing was plum blossoms, not cherry blossoms. Plum blossoms, which were introduced from China, were beloved by aristocrats for their beautiful fragrance and color, and the Manyoshu contains 110 poems about plum blossoms. A representative cherry blossom viewing event from the Nara period is the Umehana no Utage (Plum Blossom Banquet).

The "Plum Blossom Banquet" was an elegant gathering where people composed poetry while gazing at the blooming plum blossoms in the garden. It was a little different from modern cherry blossom viewing, and involved quietly enjoying nature. In this way, cherry blossom viewing in the Nara period was a traditional event held by aristocrats to appreciate the changing of the seasons.

Heian Period – Cherry blossoms become the main attraction of flower viewing

During the Heian period (794-1185), the focus of flower viewing shifted from plum blossoms to cherry blossoms. This is thought to have been due to the fading influence of Chinese culture and the development of Japan's unique "national culture." The splendor and transience of cherry blossoms resonated deeply with the aesthetic sense of the Japanese people at the time.

The "Hana-en no Setsu" flower viewing event held by Emperor Saga in 812 at Shinsen-en Garden in Kyoto is said to be the oldest cherry blossom viewing event recorded in Japan. A cherry tree called "Sakono no Sakura" was also planted in the Imperial Palace, and aristocrats would enjoy the arrival of spring while composing poetry beneath it. The Tale of Genji, a work of literature from the Heian period, also contains many scenes depicting people admiring cherry blossoms, showing that cherry blossoms were already a special presence at that time.

Kamakura and Muromachi Periods – Cherry Blossom Viewing Spreads to Samurai

From the Kamakura period (1185-1333) through the Muromachi period (1336-1573), cherry blossom viewing also became popular among the samurai, who would hold banquets while gazing at the cherry blossoms and enjoy brief moments of peace between the ravages of war.

Especially during the Muromachi period, it became popular to visit famous cherry blossom viewing spots such as "Yoshino" and "Daigo" in Kyoto. Cherry blossom viewing at that time was not just a way to admire the cherry blossoms, but also a formal social occasion where aristocrats and samurai would gather and interact.

Edo Period – Cherry blossom culture spreads among the common people

During the Edo period (1603-1868), cherry blossom viewing spread from the samurai and aristocracy to the common people as well. The eighth shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune, planted cherry trees on Asukayama, the banks of the Sumida River, and the Koganei banks, and common people began to hold parties while enjoying the cherry blossoms.

During this period, the phrase "Dumplings are better than flowers" was coined, and enjoying food and drinks became an important part of cherry blossom viewing in addition to viewing the cherry blossoms. Cookbooks from that time contain recipes for gorgeous bentos and dumplings, which are considered to be the prototypes of modern cherry blossom viewing bentos. The Somei-Yoshino cherry tree, which was also created during this period, grows quickly and has spread throughout the country, becoming the main attraction of cherry blossom viewing today.

After the Meiji Period – Towards Modern Cherry Blossom Viewing Style

Since the Meiji period (1868-1912), as Japan has been modernizing, there has been a growing movement to plant more cherry trees. Around this time, the fast-growing and beautiful Somei-Yoshino cherry tree spread across the country, and famous cherry blossom viewing spots like those we see today were born all over the country. Cherry blossom viewing also began to attract attention as a tourist attraction, and events and services were developed to welcome many visitors.

After the war, cherry blossoms became a symbol of Japan's recovery and took on a special place in the hearts of the people. Thus, cherry blossom viewing has continued to this day as an indispensable event for the Japanese people to celebrate the arrival of spring.

Preparations and etiquette for enjoying Japan's cherry blossom viewing culture

Hanami, a symbol of spring in Japan, is not just a way to view cherry blossoms, but a special event where you can experience Japanese culture. The appeal of hanami is strolling along rows of cherry blossom trees, viewing illuminated cherry blossoms at night, and having a picnic with colorful lunchboxes. You can also take photos with the cherry blossoms in the background and enjoy uniquely Japanese flavors such as Japanese sweets and matcha tea to make your experience even more memorable.

However, to enjoy cherry blossom viewing, it is important to prepare in advance and follow proper etiquette. We will introduce some tips for preparation and etiquette so that you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing at ease even if it is your first time.

Search for a good location

To ensure a successful cherry blossom viewing, it is important to do some preliminary research beforehand. To secure a good spot, choose several famous cherry blossom viewing spots and actually visit them to compare them. It is a good idea to check the space appropriate for the number of participants, the visibility of the cherry blossoms, and the condition of the ground to ensure safety.

Also, be sure to check in advance where the restrooms are and the venue's rules (such as whether or not fire is allowed and whether pets are allowed).

Bring comfortable clothes

The weather in Japan in spring is changeable, and even if it's warm during the day, it can get cold at night. If you plan to enjoy the cherry blossoms at night, it's a good idea to bring a scarf or blanket with you.

Also, since you will often be sitting on the ground during cherry blossom viewing, we recommend wearing clothes that are easy to move around in and won't get dirty. Stretch pants and a thin outer layer will ensure a comfortable stay.

Take proper precautions against hay fever

The cherry blossom season is also a time when there is a lot of pollen. People who suffer from hay fever can reduce pollen adhesion by not only wearing a mask but also by choosing clothes that do not generate static electricity.

Also, if you have long hair, it is effective to tie it up. Since a lot of pollen is in the air, especially on windy days, it is a good idea to prepare allergy medicine so you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing without worry.

On the day, act early to secure a spot

On the day of the cherry blossom viewing, it is important to arrive early to secure a good spot. If you are unable to get the spot you want, you can always move to another potential spot that you found during your preliminary inspection.

It is also a good idea to wear brightly colored clothing and eye-catching accessories so that participants can easily find their way around.

Enjoy cherry blossom viewing while being considerate of those around you

Cherry blossom viewing is a place to relax and have fun, but it's also important to be considerate of those around you. In Japan, it is considered basic etiquette to stay quiet in public places. In particular, people tend to get louder when they drink alcohol, so be careful not to disturb other groups.

Also, in Japan it is customary to not leave any trash behind and to take it home with you, so prepare some garbage bags in advance and try to keep the venue clean.

summary

Cherry blossom viewing is an event where you can fully experience the charm of spring in Japan. It's not just about enjoying the cherry blossoms, it's also a special time to feel connected to nature and people. Spending time under the cherry blossoms is a wonderful experience to celebrate the arrival of spring. Please enjoy a memorable cherry blossom viewing experience while taking care of the preparations and proper etiquette.