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The national flower of Japan blooms only once a year in a short burst of ephemeral glory. The Japanese celebrate this blooming of the Cherry Blossoms. The tradition of hanami goes right back to the Heian Period (794-1185), where cherry blossom viewing parties were popular amongst the aristocracy. It wasn't until much later, during the Azuchi-Momoyama Period (1574-1600) that the samurai warlord, Toyotomi Hideyoshi, popularised the event by throwing massive hanami parties for the people as well. This colourful festival takes place throughout Japan in late March and early April, depending on when the trees decide to blossom. Once they do though, there are events galore to watch and participate in.

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