In spring in Japan there is a tradition of “viewing the cherry blossoms” called “Hanami, which is not to be confused with the viewing of fireworks called “Hanabi”. Hanami is basically a time to sit under a cherry tree, enjoy the view, hang out with family and freinds, and most importantly get PLASTERED!! Hanami parties are some of the best parties you can go to in Japan, especially for a “Gaijin” (No Japanese). I remember many times just walking home from work and being invited to join complete strangers for a drink or two and some wonderful food (mostly drinking).
The wifey and I went driving the other day and noticed that there were what we thought were cherry blossom trees. After a couple double takes we relized that they were indeed cherry trees. We wondered if there were any Hanami parites going on or was it a little too cold to throw one. We thought that it would be cool to have a BBQ under the Sakura Trees with some of our friends, but don’t think we can do it this year. Perhaps next year we can organize an official Hanami party.
Sakura – Cherry Blossom in Japanese
Gaijin – Foreignor in Japanese
Hanami – Flower viewing usually Cherry Blossoms
Hanabi - Fireworks viewing
