Did you know that every spring in Japan, something magical happens?
Cherry blossoms — or sakura — suddenly burst into bloom, turning parks and streets into soft pink dreamscapes.
It’s during this short but special time that people gather under the cherry trees to celebrate hanami, the age-old tradition of cherry blossom viewing.
For many of us, it’s the moment we truly feel: “Ah, spring is here.”
🌸 What Is Hanami?
You might be wondering — what exactly is hanami?
The word literally means “flower viewing,” and in Japan, it refers to the joyful custom of enjoying cherry blossoms in spring.
The tradition began over a thousand years ago, during the Heian period (around the 9th century). Back then, Japanese nobles would gather under blooming trees to write poetry and enjoy seasonal feasts.
While plum blossoms were once more popular, sakura gradually became the true symbol of spring.
By the Edo period (17th–19th centuries), hanami had spread to everyday people. Parks and riverbanks were planted with cherry trees, and families began bringing homemade lunches to enjoy under the blossoms — just like people do today.
🌸 My Hanami Memories
When I lived in Japan, hanami was something I looked forward to every year.
My friends and I would head to the park with picnic blankets, each of us bringing food — some homemade, some picked up from the convenience store on the way. We’d sit under the blossoms, eat, chat, and take in the view together.
Sometimes we stayed out late to enjoy yozakura — cherry blossoms lit up at night.
Of course, the weather wasn’t always perfect. It could be cold, rainy, or full of pollen! More than once, our picnic turned into a cozy indoor gathering at someone’s home. But honestly, that just added to the fun.
Hanami was never just about the flowers — it was also about reconnecting with friends, sharing stories, and making memories.
🍱 What’s in a Hanami Bento?
One of the most exciting parts of hanami is the food.
In Japan, convenience stores and supermarkets are open even on weekends, so you can easily pick up tasty things like rice balls, sandwiches, or sweets. But preparing your own bento — a Japanese lunch box — makes the experience feel even more special.
I still remember when a friend brought a beautiful jubako — a traditional tiered bento box that’s often used for New Year’s feasts and other festive occasions in Japan, such as picnics or family gatherings.
Inside were colorful rice balls, tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelet), and other delicious treats. It looked so elegant and festive, it instantly made the picnic feel like a celebration.
Inspired by that, I tried making my own hanami bento, too.
Here’s what I packed ↓
These recipes are all available on Umami, so if you’re planning your own picnic, feel free to try them out!
👉 Easy Japanese Inari Sushi with Store-Bought Inari-age
👉 Easy Sushi Rolls with Crab Stick, Salmon, and Avocado
👉 Crispy and Juicy! Oven-Baked Japanese Chicken Karaage
🌸 A Taste of Hanami — Even in Berlin
Believe it or not, cherry blossoms bloom here in Berlin too!
While it’s still a bit chilly for a proper picnic in early spring, I plan to enjoy hanami a little later — when the weather is warmer and the trees are green again.
And if you’re heading out for a spring picnic this year, I hope this gives you a little inspiration. Let the cherry blossoms guide your way — and don’t forget your bento!😊
