With each season comes a new set of traditions and celebrations. Bid farewell to the coziness of winter and embrace the freshness and rejuvenation of spring. Anticipate the new growth that comes with the warmer breezes and sunny days.
Each spring, people across Japan gather under cherry (sakura) trees to enjoy their brief and magical bloom. Hanami, the tradition of flower viewing, dates to an 8th-century practice of drinking under a blooming tree. The celebration grew in popularity over the centuries, and sakura became an integral part of Japanese culture.
Sakura blossoms have close ties to the Japanese concept of wabi-sabi and the appreciation of impermanence and renewal. The beauty of the blooms is fleeting, as they only flower for one week before covering the ground in a layer of petals. Today, hanami celebrations remain a staple each year. The trees begin to bloom in the southern-most regions and work their way north throughout the early spring. Japanese news stations release detailed forecasts predicting the peak moments, so eager flower-viewers don’t miss the short blossoming window.
During the brief bloom, friends, and family gather under the trees to enjoy their beauty. They share special dishes to celebrate the occasion, including makizushi (sushi rolls), inarizushi (sushi rice stuffed in fried tofu pouches), or kamaboko (pink and white fish cakes). Sake is also traditionally shared among friends during hanami.
Appreciation and respect for the rhythms of nature is a central part of Snow Peak’s ethos, and hanami distinctly exemplifies this value. Lean into the tradition and search out cherry blossoms near you! Gather with friends and celebrate the arrival of spring. Create a comfortable setup with gear and apparel from our Picnic Collection.
