Friday, March 09, 2007

Cherry Blossom Festival



The coming of spring is always apparent in Japan. The cherry trees, Sakura, start blooming all around the city and country. Trees that were indistinct through the winter blossom over night and the foresight and eye for beauty of the city planners is instantly apparent.

Hanami (literally flower viewing) is my favorite time of year. Not only does it mark the anniversary of my expatriation to asia but it really reminds me that, Hey, I live in another country! Believe it or not it is easy to forget.

Everyone goes to the park or mountains and sets up a picnic area with friends, family and co-workers. Much wining and wassailing follow until by the end of the day blankets have joined into one giant picnic blanket that cover the park. While petals float gently to the ground like snow. Then to top it all off we stumble en masse to the nearest karaoke bar to sing 80`s greatest hits.

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