Sakura 2019 ? – The (Japanese) Season for Cherry Blossoms

1# Day and Night

We made a point of seeing hanami during the day and night because there is such a change in atmosphere and even the trees looks different in the dusk light. The soft colors against all the lanterns and fairy lights are nothing short of magical.

2# Book well in advance

Also, if you’re planning on visiting Japan for the cherry blossom festival it’ll be a good idea to book as well in advance as possible. Some even suggest six months prior, and if you time it right you can get to enjoy a whole lot of other sights unique to Japan, like the hot springs where monkeys literally relax all day.

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We figure when in a foreign country experience as much ‘foreignness’ as you can, which is why we have suggested the Wakamatsu Hot Spring Resort.

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The resort open-air hot spring baths, with ocean views and it’ a quick 15-minute drive from the JR Hakodate Station. There is free parking for guests and the most deliciously prepared Japanese meals are available.

Inside the rooms, there are traditional futons and wooden-straw flooring. They have an en-suite bathroom with a gorgeous bathtub.

And then there’s Pension Jokura. Don’t let the name fool you – it’s not a rest-home for golden-oldies. The accommodation is close to the Omachi Tram Station and a quick 5 minute walk to the Red Brick Warehouse, a popular tourist destination. The rooms are heated and have simple, but beautiful, wood furniture, free WiFi and an LCD TV.

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There are shared showers and baths, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea, but we didn’t mind.

It’s conveniently located: a six-minute drive from the JR Hakodate Train and a quick 20-minute drive to the Hakodate Airport.

I think one of my absolute favorite things of the entire cherry blossom festival, is the Hakodate-style of socializing. You simply find a spot under a tree (cherry blossom no doubt), throw down a blanket and enjoy a picnic.

Jingisukan

People do a Mongolian mutton BBQ, known as a “Jingisukan” in the park, and while it isn’t allowed the rest of the year, it’s permitted for the two-week sakura celebration.

To get into the real swing of things do as the locals do: visit a supermarket or food hall, buy the necessary foods or go the easy route and get a convenient Bento box. Grab your picnic blanket or rug and find a great spot in one of the many parks. Take in the beauty of your surroundings while enjoying the local delicacies.

You can also try a few sakura snacks like crisps and dumplings. There also a canned drink that you need to try. But be aware, you’ll only taste it once – apparently, it’s a combination of soap and lavender. 

The town is also known for tasty seafood, especially squid, which is its specialty. And sushi… Try and eat as much of it as you possibly can. If you’re not allergic to it, of course!

By Air

You can travel by air, with Tokyo-Sapporo being the world’s busiest air route, by train too and even by ferry.

By Streetcar

Getting around Hakodate is easy with streetcars running every six to twelve minutes and because they’re geared for it, they are able to take you to all the major touristy places including Goryokaku. The fares are fair, costing between 200 – 250 yen, which you pay when you get in the streetcar.

By Bus

Buses are also a great way travel, again taking you to the major tourist attractions. Just in front of Hakodate Station there is an information desk and loads of helpful people to get you where you want to go.

Dating all the way back to the 8^th century, hanami began with the mindful observing of plum blossoms. Over time people started to believe the trees possessed spirits and made off kinds of offerings as a way of honoring them. In the 18^th century hundreds of cherry blossom trees were planted in order for the tradition to the continued, and it has. With people from all around the world celebrating this spectacle!