In spring, we host a traditional hanami picnic during the cherry blossom season. As part of the experience, we prepare seasonal Japanese treats together with locals—such as sakura mochi and hanami dango—offering you an authentic taste of this beloved tradition. The hanami picnic is more than a meal under the blossoms: it’s a cultural exchange, a moment of reflection, and a joyful celebration. Enjoy lighthearted games, conversations with local residents, and peaceful moments as cherry petals gently fall around you.
A hanami picnic (花見, meaning “flower viewing”) is a cherished Japanese tradition of welcoming spring by enjoying the beauty of cherry blossoms. The practice dates back to the 8th century, when it began in the imperial courts during the Heian period. At that time, noble families would gather under blooming cherry trees to write poetry and admire the fleeting beauty of the blossoms, which came to symbolize the transience of life.
Over time, hanami spread beyond the aristocracy. In the Edo period (1603–1868), Shogun Tokugawa Yoshimune encouraged the planting of cherry trees across Japan so that common people could also enjoy this seasonal custom. This is when the modern hanami picnic was born.
Today, a hanami picnic means gathering with family, friends, or coworkers under the cherry trees, enjoying seasonal foods, drinks, and joyful moments together. It’s not just about looking at flowers – it’s a time to celebrate nature, togetherness, and the arrival of spring.
The hanami picnic reflects Japan’s deep cultural appreciation for nature and impermanence. Whether it’s a simple lunch or an elaborate feast, sitting beneath the falling petals brings people closer to each other – and to the moment itself.
