From Plum to Cherry: A Royal Shift
Believe it or not, the very first “Hanami” didn’t involve cherry blossoms at all. During the Nara period (710–794), people admired fragrant plum blossoms (ume) brought over from China. It wasn’t until the Heian period (794–1185) that the elite shifted their obsession to the native sakura. For the Emperors and aristocrats, these fleeting petals inspired sophisticated poetry and elegant sake parties—but this remained a “VIP only” affair.
The Shogun’s Gift to the Public
For centuries, these beautiful gatherings were reserved for the ruling class. That changed during the Edo period. To boost public morale, the eighth Shogun, Tokugawa Yoshimune, ordered the planting of thousands of cherry trees in public spots like Ueno and Asukayama. His goal was simple: to give the hard-working people of Edo a place to relax and enjoy nature.
Modern Hanami: A National Festival of Spring
What started as a solemn ritual for nobles has evolved into the lively, inclusive celebration that defines spring in Japan today. For modern Japanese people, Hanami is the ultimate social event. You’ll see coworkers staking out the perfect spot with blue tarps, while friends and families gather to share beautiful homemade bento or colorful treats from department stores. Sharing a meal under the blossoms is the heart of the tradition.
As the sun sets, the party doesn’t stop—”Yozakura” (night sakura) takes over, with illuminated trees creating a magical, glowing atmosphere. It’s a time for everyone to pause their busy lives, gather with loved ones, and cherish the fleeting beauty of the petals together.
Recommended Links for Your Hanami Adventure in Japan