Let your dreams cherry blossom!
The Hanami (Japanese for ‘flower viewing’) seasonal festival is upon us, where the flourishing of the gorgeous Sakura trees bloom in over 1,000 cities, showering its surroundings in breath-taking pink blossom for 1-2 weeks a year. During the evening time, lights and lanterns lace the branches of the trees so the flowers glow in the dark, illuminating the streets for Yozakura (night cherry blossom).
Along with all the delicious authentic Japanese cuisine you can feast on such as Ramen and Sushi, there is a wide range of Hanami themed goods, such as pink Sakura Pepsi and pink KitKats. Just imagine your Bento-box picnic sat underneath one of these stunning trees, paying respects to the festival’s roots of meditation on life, death and renewal. You can’t get much more Zen!
Some of the most popular Japanese cities to celebrate this are Yoshino in Kansai, where the famous Mount Yoshino tree’s branches bow to the ground. The 14th century castle Himjei, also in Kansai, hosts gorgeous grounds and is widely considered Japan’s most spectacular castle. One of the most picturesque viewings of the Sakura trees is in Chubu, at the bottom of famous Mount Fuji. Tourists get up early to get in the Onsen (hot springs) to watch the sunrise and mist descend from the lake and trees, start your day in complete awe
The Park Hyatt Hotel Kyoto offers its guests a harmonious design, with elegant architecture which honours the Japanese tradition and nature with its grand boutique design. The perfect place to relax after a day of exploring. Another amazing five star hotel in Kyoto is the world famous Four Seasons, where tradition and modernity fuse together. Set in the temple district, an 800 year old Shakusui-en pond garden grounds the hotel and sets the tone for ultimate tranquillity. They offer Kyoto’s largest hotel suite, the Speciality Suite, and has a luxury spa offering revitalising treatments. Take yourself to the meditative realms of inner and outer peace.
Travel can be arranged from any UK airport, where a luxury concierge can be arranged for all transfers. All bookings with Optimum Experience will include Fast Track through security in the UK airports and an airport lounge if one is available in your departing airport.
For more information on travel to Japan to see this special awakening of nature, please get in touch with Kirsty, our Luxury Travel Concierge.
