花見！

It's (finally!) spring time here in Niigata which means it's time to enjoy the age-old tradition of hanami.

Hanami (literally, flower viewing) is a celebration of the changing seasons and the life cycle of the sakura (cherry blossom) tree. Sakura are seen as a metaphor of life and the passing of time. The new fiscal year in Japan begins in April, so many companies and schools will hold hanami parties to welcome new employees and administrators.

The peak of the cherry blossom is relatively short (about a week after intial blooming) and strong wind or rain can damage the delicate flowers. Because the sakura are so fleeting, people closely follow the blossom forecast (桜前線 sakurazensen) which is published annually by the Weather Bureau. A typical hanami party consists of friends, food, a blue tarp to sit on and lots of alcohol.

Here are some photos from Hakusan Park where Kate, Kayvohn, Phil, Ben, Makiko and I endulged in the merriment (and public intoxication) that is hanami.

ちょ-きれい！




mmmm, yakuza food stalls