It will soon be that time of year again.  That special week when people sleep on the ground, suffer the cold, and camp out to save a spot.  People plan parties with friends and co-workers.  Artists scope out the perfect view for the optimal picture opportunity or painting spot.  Sweet smells takes over the air, the beautiful pinks and whites fill up the trees.

I'm of course talking about sakura.  Hanami parties are a fantastic Japanese tradition.  The tasty meat sizzling on the grill, sharing an ice cold one with some friends in the spring weather is a great way to enjoy an afternoon. The sun is out, the weather is warmer, and mother nature blesses us with a beauty that is the cherry blossom.  Sakura is often only a week long.  There is a prime week for optimal viewing pleasure.  This week is announced by weather experts on the news and in the newspapers.  They will let you know when the best viewing time is for your area. Don't worry about missing the week you will hear the buzz from everyone else.

These little flowers blossom all over Japan.  However, some spots are more concentrated than others and are often a lot more people crowded.  These spots are not to be missed.  Kyoto has some famous spots where people often camp out over night just to reserve a good spot underneath the trees.  Maruyama Park is one of the most famous spots.  It's located just behind Yasaka Shrine.  It's about 20 minutes from the Kyoto station.  Take bus number 100 or 206 and get off at the Gion stop and follow the crowds.  Don't forget a tarp or blanket and a camera.

One of my favorite spots in the Osaka area is off the Hankyu line at the Shukugawa station.  When you exit the station turn left and follow the river.  This beautiful river is lined with the cherry blossom trees.  It's a little less crowded, and a very photogenic area.

Let us know what your favorite spots are around Japan.  Send us an email ( This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it ) and we'll post it to share it with others.

I recommend planning the party early, so you can get a good spot, before the blossoms all fall to the ground.  Enjoy your parties and your spring before the weather gets miserably hot and humid.