Foto's

The Cherry blossoms (Hanami) emerge in an explosion of color as the weather begins to warm-up and the people emerge and gather to celebrate. 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, popularized the event by throwing massive hanami parties for the people as well. In modern times people congregate in groups and BBQ and drink deep into the night generally enjoying in pleasant conversations with friends. This man is riding his bike through the edge of the Hanami trees in Hakushima.