If you could describe a perfect day, what would it include? For me; sun, a cool breeze, pink blossoms falling around you like rain, laughter, good conversation, new friends, tasty food, plenty of drink, fun, games, goldfish and the undeniable feeling of new beginnings brought by spring. This is Hanami. Spring is an important season in Japan and considered by most to be the best season. People get together during the short week that the cherry blossoms(sakura) are blooming and have picnics. I was lucky enough to get many invitations to Hanami parties (literally means hana - flower, mi - viewing), but I could only go to two because of my work schedule. The first one was in Takamatsu at Ritsurin Koen. The weather was hotter then I expected and I quickly shed my jacket on
... read more