In Japan, the seasons are revered. But these aren’t the basic four seasons. Japan has seventy-two, connected to the moon, sun and nature and based on an ancient calendar. These poetic micro-seasons include the days in February when fish emerge from the ice, the period in May when frogs start singing, the time in early October when wild geese return, and the spell in late November when rainbows hide.
While many travellers try to plan their Japan trips to coincide with sakura season, the unpredictability of the ephemeral cherry blossoms makes it hard to guarantee, hotels get full, prices rise higher than even the tallest trees and crowds descend. There’s an undeniable magic to visiting at this time of year, but Japan’s distinct seasons mean there are many equally lovely times to visit. Here, we’ve picked out some seasonal highlights that embrace the very best of Japan throughout the entire year.
Cherry blossoms in a park in Osaka Prefecture
onosanSpringtime Sakura
Sakura blooms generally around the same time each year, but it can be notoriously difficult to plan a trip around the exact dates as many different factors, from weather to sudden temperature changes and rainfall, can affect the blossoms. But if you have some flexibility, are open to a bit of spontaneity, and are willing to jump on Japan’s highly efficient train network, it’s possible to chase the sakura.
Cherry blossom season starts in Japan’s far southern islands as early as mid-January, and progresses northwards until it reaches Hokkaido in May. Meteorologists chart the “sakura front” as it makes its progress, and anticipation runs high on daily weather reports that feature cherry blossom symbols alongside the usual sun and clouds. Sakura reaches mankai – its peak – in Tokyo in mid to late March, and the city’s parks fill up with families, friends and work colleagues who picnic day and night beneath the trees.
AloJapan.com