JET Programme Series: Sakura Season in Southern Japan - Samantha Samlal

When we hear about cherry blossoms in Japan, we immediately visualize the beautiful, delicate, white blooms popularly found in the big cities like Tokyo.

But here, in a small, rural island in the southern part of Japan, we pride ourselves in the vivid, fuchsia cherry blossoms called "kanhizakura". These eye-catching beauties start blooming from as early as January and are usually in full bloom during the first and second week of February.

In true Japanese fashion, there is a custom for celebrating the cherry blossoms, called "hanami". This is celebrated by having a picnic and drinking beer while admiring the transient cherry trees.

Here on the island, people often spend time with friends, take photos and even go on dates.

My favorite place for viewing sakura is along a street called 'Happy Road". It's a hilly area lined with cherry trees and overlooking the tranquil, blue sea. It's magical especially at sunset.

If you ever have the opportunity to visit Japan, I would recommend "sakura season".


JET Series: Sakura Season in Southern Japan (Japanese Embassy's Facebook) 

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