AboutJewel Expertise I can answer basic Japanese culture questions. I specialize in answering questions relating to geisha.
Experience I have read up on a lot of the Japanese culture today. Most of my reading is in geisha, as I have quite a collection of books and art. I also continue to talk with a previous Japanese exchange student, who I speak with about her country often.
Education/Credentials Degree in nutrition science and high school education.
Question QUESTION: Hi...I know my question is not relating with Geisha Culture in which you have quite an admirable excellence, yet I wish to know from you about "Sakura". I have read somewhere about this festival of flowers or season alike, yet I wish to know what exactly this Sakura bears such an importance in the Japanese culture? Is this a traditional one especially with girls?
ANSWER: The Japanese feel very deeply about the spring and cherry blossom viewing is HUGE! I think you're confusing Sakura and Children's Day which falls on May 5th or Girls Day (also called Dolls Festival) with is on March 3rd. These are around the time that the cherries blossom and festivals begin.
Please let me know if you want me to be more specific with these holidays. :)
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QUESTION: Oops….may be I got myself confused with Sakura and Girls’ Day. Yes, really…actually I wished to know more about “Cherry Blossom” season which definitely is the prime social festival of Japanese. I would very much obliged if you tell me something interesting about this festival of Japan. Thanks.
Raj
Answer Cherry blossom viewing is very popular in Japan. There are even "forecasts" that the Japanese will use in order to see the blossoms since some only bloom for a couple of days.
Groups may have parties under the cherry trees during this time and festivals usually begin around early May. During this time, the festivals will go throughout the day and into the night. They put up lights to light up the trees in the evening.
Some of the festival events include tea ceremonies (if there is anything to celebrate in Japan, there is usually a tea ceremony that goes along with it) and performances for the public. Visiting Japan during the spring is the best time to go and really get into the traditional and beautiful Japan.
