Gabriele T. Enna

Sakura 2024

Flowers, Family & Friends, Alcohol and a break from normality



Hanami, which translates to “花＝flower 見＝viewing”, is a cherished tradition in Japan where friends, families, and colleagues gather to appreciate the delicate cherry blossoms, known as Sakura. This year, the Hanami season arrived late, but as the cherry blossoms finally burst into full bloom, parks and public spaces transformed into a breathtaking sea of pink petals.

The first sakura tree right in front of the station that overlooks the canal and the people who walk along the road that runs alongside it to admire all the other plants that line the river

Despite the challenges posed by the weather, people still found moments to indulge in the Hanami experience. Picnics under the blossoming trees filled the air with laughter and conversation, accompanied by traditional foods and plenty of alcoholic beverages. It was a time for relaxation, reflection, and celebration—a chance to pause and appreciate the beauty of nature amidst the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Hanami goes beyond mere aesthetic appreciation; it holds deep cultural significance, symbolizing themes of renewal, impermanence, and the fleeting nature of life. It’s a reminder to cherish the present moment and find joy in simple pleasures. In a world that often feels rushed and repetitive, Hanami offers a small but meaningful break—a moment to slow down, connect with nature, and savor the beauty of the changing seasons.

a statue in the park of a muse who seems to want to touch the sakura with one arm

Here are some photos of this year’s busiest Hanami weekend, a cloudy Saturday and a Sunny Sunday, in Oji (Tokyo), a place that, strangely, still belongs to only the people who live in the area.