Japanese cherry blossoms, also known as Sakura <桜(さくら)>, are very popular amongst people who study Japanese culture. It appears everywhere in Japanese movies, dramas, anime, etc. If you ever searched for Japan, probably you have come across these little flowers.
It's true that they are visually popular, but do you know the cultural meaning of Sakura for Japanese people?
What is Sakura?
Sakura is the Japanese word for cherry blossoms. There are so many varieties of Sakura such as Someiyoshino and Shidarezakura, but the most typical ones are pale pink flowers bloomed around April in Japan.
One of the most famous meanings of Sakura is the symbolic passage of time: the arrival of spring. In Japan, almost all of the new students and employees have the entrance ceremony at their school or company in April; April is not only the arrival of spring but also the beginning of new semester or new job for people living in Japan.
Since it’s the same timing as the bloom of Sakura, these flowers symbolise the start of new environment or new life. That's why there are a lot of Japanese songs which associate Sakura with the beginning of something new.
On the other hand, Sakura also represents the fleeting moments we share with others because they have a really short life. Most of the flowers fall off in ten days or two weeks due to the heavy rain and wind.
Hanami - Sakura Viewing
Do you know what Hanami <花見(はなみ)> is?
Hana <花(はな)> means "flowers" and Miru <見(み)る> is the verb "to see", so Hanami means "flower viewing" in Japanese. Although the literal meaning of this word is "flower viewing", it can be translated as "Sakura viewing" since most people imagine Sakura by this word.
This is the traditional custom that happens every spring in Japan. If you are planning to visit Japan around April, your Japanese friends must say "now it's the best season for Hanami!".
However, it has to be noted that Sakura flourishes only for two weeks and the best timing is different depending on the area, so you have to perfectly schedule the time for appreciating the beauty of it. The best time for Hanami in Tokyo, for example, is around the end of March whereas it can be around the end of April in other areas.
How do people enjoy this event?
Usually friends and family gather and huddle together to enjoy viewing the flowers under the Sakura trees. Just like a picnic, it’s common that they bring food and drink, and have a great time whilst viewing Sakura at park.
Besides those private Hanami parties, a lot of famous Sakura spots hold Sakura Matsuri (cherry blossom festival) during this season, where visitors can enjoy the amazing view of Sakura with delicious food and drink from the food stalls.
If you go even further, the traditional Hanami was made by Ume (Japanese plums) trees in ancient Japan. Even in modern times, there are many great Ume Matsuri (plum festival) to enjoy Ume blossoms all around Japan. If you have already experienced Sakura viewing, why don't you go see Ume for Hanami on your next visit?
Hanami at Night? - Yozakura
Hanami is such a popular tradition in Japan, but have you heard of Yozakura?
The word "Yozakura Quartet" might ring a bell with those who read manga or watch anime a lot as that manga has Yozakura in its title.
Yozakura is written with the kanji of Yoru <夜(よる)> and Sakura <桜(さくら)>, which means "night Sakura", and it’s another fun way to enjoy Hanami.
The main attraction is to see Sakura flowers at night whilst the artificial lights illuminate the parks or roads. As you can imagine, they have a completely different vibe at night and that makes your Hanami experience even more exciting.
Where can we see this?
Most of the famous Sakura spots light up their Sakura trees so people can enjoy their another face which only can be seen at night. Yazakura is popular not only because it's beautiful but also because it's easier to gather for people after working or school. It's not rare that some companies or uni students have a Nomikai (drinking party) around these Yozakura places.
Viewing Sakura at night is an absolutely amazing experience in Japan and the night vibes make the Sakura flowers even more beautiful and magical. Don't miss out on this romantic night out during your stay in Japan!
Did you know these facts about Sakura? Tell us in the comments if you have ever experienced Hanami! We would love to see your take on these wonderful flowers!
Learn Japanese with Granlibro!
Japanese culture is very unique and interesting, but Japanese is one of the hardest languages to learn, especially if you want to use natural expressions like native speakers. Granlibro offers 1-on-1 online Japanese tutoring and each student is assigned a personal native Japanese tutor and a lesson coordinator.
Why not have your personal native Japanese tutor so you can enjoy learning Japanese whilst understanding more about their culture? Let's learn all about Japan with your Granlibro tutor and realise your dream!
Comments