The Most Beautiful Season in Japan

cocodrilo · Joined: 12 Apr 2004 Posts: 494 Location: Western Japan

Most definitely the best time to visit Japan is when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, if you are lucky enough to be able to arrange a vacation then and if the unpredictable spring weather is in your favor. The cherry blossoms("sakura") bloom as early as the end of March in the warmer, western parts of Honshu and as late as mid-May in the colder climes of northern Japan. The Japanese venture out to popular spots for "hanami", cherry blossom viewing parties, toting elaborate boxed lunches, sake, beer and even karaoke sets! Daytime hanami is great for families, but the Japanese really let their hair down at "yozakura", evening cherry blossom viewing parties. Although you might have to wear long underwear as it can still be pretty cold during spring in Japan, the blossoming trees are another good excuse for making merry and consuming large quantities of alcohol with friends or co-workers. I have 2 cherry trees in my yard and have small get-togethers when the blossoms are in full bloom, viewing the trees indoors from my bay windows(where it's warm inside!). For more details on hanami, check out the following site:
http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2001.html