As I write (or type, as it were) the rain is falling outside my window. The air is cold and damp, reminiscent of November rather than mid April. Still, in the midst of a dreary beginning to spring, the sakura have bloomed and given a delicate beauty to the gray skies. Somehow the rain becomes more romantic when it is falling on the pale pink petals of the cherry blossom tree.
My first experience with these iconic Japanese trees was last spring. In the weeks prior to the day when I took the photos for that post, I had been insanely busy. Life seems to accelerate about a million times for us in the spring, but when I stumbled upon 5 or 6 sakura trees along the Tamagawa River, I felt as though everything stood still. The hustle and bustle of life slowed down for a few minutes scented with the sweetness of fresh blossoms and warm spring air.
This year, the experience was a bit more rushed. Life has been busy yet again, which along with the crummy weather has made Sakura season seem shorter. Still we were able to enjoy a few moments among the pedals as they fell like snow from the trees. We live very close to a park with massive Sakura trees that take your breath away. During ohanami, crowds of people flock to any Sakura tree they can find, armed with blankets, food, and beverages. Grocery stores are full of Sakura-themed treats that are dressed up especially for ohanami. I found this Japanese Sakura Wine, complete with tiny gold flakes in the shape of cherry blossoms, along with various mochi treats flavored with matcha and filled with red bean paste.
There is no question that ohanami is one of the greatest times of year in Japan. The already hauntingly beautiful scenery in Japan is enhanced by the light frosting of Sakura flowers for a brief time. The Japanese have successfully learned how to embrace this time of year in a way that I have yet to do. Next year, my goal is to be free and clear of anything that could take away my chances at experience ohanami at its peak. I will sit under the cherry blossoms on a blanket eating, drinking and breathing in the scent of a Japanese spring with friends. I promise!
