【English ver.】The wonderful cherry blossom viewing culture in Japan!

Hi there! It’s Olive!

I'm currently rewriting my articles in English to highlight the differences between languages. I hope you enjoy this one! Don't forget to check out the original article in Japanese too!

The other day, I went cherry blossom viewing (Hanami) in Ueno Park with friends after work! 😆

When I went to preview the event the day before, it was packed with people even though it was a weekday night, so I took advantage of remote work and paid holidays to get a place from the first train!
The passion for Hanami is no joke 🤣
But it was worth taking the first train, as we were able to hold the event at the best spot!! 🍻　　

Also, the Shinobazu Pond next to the park is stunning! 📸
I was able to take fantastic photos of cherry blossoms reflecting on the water surface at night 🌸

Did you know that Hanami is actually a unique culture in Japan? I didn't do any cherry blossom viewing in Europe where I lived there!😮

1. Culture of cherishing nature

One reason is the culture of cherishing nature that is deeply rooted in Japan.
In Japan, we not only appreciate cherry blossoms but also other seasonal sceneries (such as autumn leaves viewing) and specialties (such as strawberry picking). This custom is surprisingly absent in Western cultures, and cause culture shock for many foreigners! ✈️

And this custom is greatly influenced by Shinto ⛩️
In fact, regarding cherry blossoms, Sakura, there is a theory that ancient farmers who worshiped the "sa" gods of the eight million gods made offerings to cherry trees, prayed for good harvests, and held banquets, which evolved into cherry blossom viewing.
The "sa" gods are mountain and rice field gods, and it is said that the tree where the "sa" gods settled was called "sakura" because the seat where the gods settled was called "kura." 🌸

2. Delicious bento that tastes good even when cold over time

The strength of bento is that it tastes good even when it gets cold over time!
Being able to enjoy delicious food while slowly admiring the flowers is also unique to Japan!
Also, in some countries, drinking alcohol in parks, etc., is prohibited by law, so you cannot gather under cherry trees to drink alcohol 😭

3. Taking trash home is etiquette

If the park becomes littered with garbage after enjoying cherry blossom viewing, there will be regulations in place next time, right?
It's a matter of course in Japan, but it's quite impressive from overseas perspectives!😄

How was it?
Due to temperature differences and the influence of rain, the cherry blossoms are starting to turn into leaves!
Please go see the beautiful cherry blossoms now! 🌸

Well then, see you later〜👋