What is Hanami?
The view from Yoshinoyama during Hanami
Hanami is a traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the beauty of flowers. Hana means flower in Japanese and Hanami means flower viewing. However, appreciation of sakura (cherry blossom) in Japan is almost a religion, and therefore Hanami has come to refer specifically to sakura. The pink-and-white blooms last for about two weeks beginning in the end of March in Kyushu, early April in Tokyo and late April in North Japan. Hanami usually lasts for 2 weeks. The most famous viewing place is Yoshinoyama near Nara, where it is said 1,000 trees can be seen at a glance.