Cherry blossoms have begun in Kyoto signaling the beginning of Spring. This time of year, which may be compared to the cherry blossoms in Washington, has become somewhat of an obsession for the Japanese. Referred to as hanami, this tradition is important for the Japanese who can drop their normal conservative reputation and enjoy having a picnic with friends and family while watching the cherry blossoms.
The cherry blossom is also symbolic to the Japanese. It is depicted on the back of the 100 yen coin and was also used as a symbol for nationalism during World War II. It is also viewed by some as a metaphor for life itself- a time to reflect upon past achievements and look ahead to a budding future.
I found this article interesting because it provided a little window of understanding to a culture I have not yet been fully exposed to. For example, the author of this article mentioned that reserving a location to watch the blossoms is very important as this area of Kyoto becomes very crowded. However, if you reserve a location and then leave for an extended period of time, the reservation will be respected. I imagine this is somewhat different than behavior we may see here in America.
http://www.bbc.com/travel/feature/20120306-sakura-season-in-kyoto
There truly is not a more beautiful and tranquil place than Japan during Sakura season. It really is magical. I remember staying in a hotel near the Inuyama Castle in the middle of March one year and the cherry blossoms were in full bloom. In many ways the Japanese lifestyle is quite spartan. Taking time to pause from a very busy schedule with planes to catch and deadlines to meet, and go and enjoy, and even reserve a spot, so that you can enjoy the beautiful tree blossoms is one manifestation of that simplicity. Thanks for sharing.
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Sounds beautiful! I would give anything to see that right now. I had no idea!
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