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What Exactly is Hanami?
Hanami is a cherished tradition in Japan dating back centuries, meaning 'flower viewing' in Japanese. Originally centered around plum blossoms (ume), it gradually transitioned to the iconic cherry blossoms.
Today, 'hanami' often refers to outdoor picnics under cherry blossoms during both day and night ('yozakura'). While cherry blossoms dominate, plum blossom viewing ('umemi') still attracts many elderly enthusiasts in certain areas.
Here are Klook's tips for an unforgettable cherry blossom season!
1. Essentials for Your Hanami Outing
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Here's a list of essential items for your hanami picnic to help you blend in with the locals here.
Picnic Blanket
You can purchase picnic blankets from discount stores all over Japan like Daiso or Don Quijote for just JPY100. It's advisable to buy them as early as possible as they may not be available, especially at popular cherry blossom viewing spots.
Convenient Utensils
Don't forget to bring along some plates, cups, utensils, and napkins to enjoy the enticing dishes!
Blanket
It's advisable to stay until evening when the cherry trees are beautifully illuminated for a fantastic experience. However, remember that the weather may get colder after sunset, so bringing a thin blanket is always a wise choice.
2. Hanami Food
Hanami Bento
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Hanami bento boxes are more visually appealing than regular bento boxes from convenience stores. Here's a list of dishes to include in your bento box:
Makizushi – sushi rolls
Inarizushi – tofu pocket sushi
Tamago – Japanese-style omelette
Kamaboko – fish cake
Other Dishes:
Karaage – Japanese crispy fried chicken
Ebi – fried shrimp
Takoyaki – octopus balls with various fillings
Onigiri – Japanese rice balls
Pickled cucumbers or lettuce
Hanami Desserts
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And of course, your meal wouldn't be complete without a delicious dessert, right? Let Klook suggest 2 super delicious desserts perfect for cherry blossom season:
Sakura Mochi: a traditional Japanese wagashi sweet with a pink rice cake outer layer filled with sweet red bean paste and salted cherry blossom leaves on the outside.
Hanami Dango: a type of rice cake made from rice flour skewered in 3 colors – pink, white, and green.
3. What to Wear for Hanami?
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It would be such a waste if you didn't choose a beautiful outfit for such a wonderful place! Step out in a traditional Japanese kimono and don't forget to take lots of photos.
Experience kimono rental services with Klook – and you'll even get a hairstyle to match your kimono! There are plenty of kimono rental shops in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Fukuoka, so head to the nearest one to you!
P.S. Oh, and these shops also have kimonos for men too!
Experience traditional Kimono attire in Tokyo with Klook
Experience traditional Kimono attire in Kyoto with Klook
Experience traditional Kimono attire in Fukuoka with Klook
