It is a moment that Japanese people look forward to: the custom of Hanami. Hanami, meaning cherry blossom viewing, is a ritual - not to say a social tradition - of Japanese origin, celebrated every spring when cherry trees are in bloom. If the phenomenon gathers every year many Japanese and tourists from all over the world, Hanami is also starting to be exported. In France, several events are now organized, inviting the most curious to come and contemplate the ephemeral blossoming of cherry trees (the famous " Sakura ") around various animations putting Japanese culture in the spotlight. But do you know the history and the origin of the cherry blossom festival? We explain you.
The history of the Hanami custom goes back to the 8th century, under the Nara era (710-794). At that time, Japanese peasants believed that gods came to hide in these famous trees in spring. They made offerings at the foot of these cherry trees. However, at that time, plum blossoms (" Ume ") seemed to fascinate the population more. It was not until the 9th century, and the arrival of the Heian period, that the Japanese really started to be attracted to " Sakura ". The very first Hanami would be born under the impulse of theEmperor Saga (786-842) who organized big parties under these famous sakuras at the Imperial Court of Kyoto. Then, it would be during the Edo period (1603-1868) that the Japanese started to organize feasts under these trees in flowers.
During this ritual, Japanese people do not hesitate to gather under the cherry trees to picnic and relax while admiring the sakura flowers. For the Japanese, this blossom is the symbol of ephemeral beauty, but also of life and renewal. And as tradition dictates, there are certain rules to follow during Hanami. For example, you should not walk or sit on the roots of cherry blossoms. It is also frowned upon to shake the branches or to pick the flowers.
The Hanami tradition has no official date and varies every year since it depends on the cherry blossoms and therefore on the climate. But Hanami coincides with spring and so the custom usually takes place at the end of March or in April. The ritual is such that the Japanese meteorological service monitors the cherry blossoms very closely.
Today, the phenomenon is exported abroad, as for example in South Korea or in China, but also in France for our greatest happiness.
Where to see cherry blossoms in Paris and the Ile-de-France region: the most beautiful parks and gardens
With the arrival of spring comes cherry blossom season. We reveal the best spots for a stroll under the Sakuras (Japanese cherry trees) and enjoy Hanami (cherry blossom festival). Whether you want to take a photo or enjoy an enchanted stroll, here are our favorite places to admire cherry blossom in Paris and the Ile-de-France region. [Read more]
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Where to see cherry blossoms in Paris and the Ile-de-France region: the most beautiful parks and gardens
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