Hanami: How to Enjoy Cherry Blossom Season Like a Local

Hanami — literally "flower viewing" — is the tradition of gathering under blooming cherry trees to eat, drink and celebrate spring.

Timing

Bloom forecasts are published from early in the year and updated regularly. Full bloom (mankai) usually comes about a week after first bloom and lasts around a week, depending on weather. See our seasons guide.

How to join in

• Bring a picnic sheet, snacks from a depachika or konbini, and drinks.
• Popular parks fill early — people sometimes reserve spots in the morning.
• Some parks prohibit alcohol, barbecues or sheets in certain areas; check signs.

Etiquette

• Never pull, shake or break branches — trees are delicate.
• Take all rubbish with you or use designated bins.
• Keep music and noise reasonable.
• Don't block paths for photos.

Yozakura (night blossoms)

Many parks and castles illuminate trees in the evening — Chidorigafuchi and Meguro River in Tokyo, Maruyama Park in Kyoto, and Hirosaki Castle in Aomori are well known.

Beat the crowds

Go early in the morning on weekdays, choose lesser-known parks, or follow the blossom front north after the main cities peak.