- Nothing puts the Japanese people in more of a celebratory mood than Springtime. In February – June every year, all over Japan, the Sakura, or Japanese cherry blossoms, explode with color. Both young and old come out to celebrate the coming of Spring.
So special is the celebration the Japanese have a name for cherry blossom viewing. They call it Hanami.
Every year, millions of people pack a picnic basket filled with food and drink to mark Hanami. Legend has it that it’s the smell of the cherry blossoms in full bloom that lifts everyone’s spirit. Some would say it’s the great food and strong drink that makes everyone so happy.
All over Japan, Hanami is a great time. Why not enjoy Spring the Japanese way?
Kintetsu offers Hanami tours at flexible locations and times.
One of the best tours is Kintetsu’s day trip leaving Tokyo to Odawara to take in the cherry blossoms at Odawara Castle. The landmark is located in the southwest of Kanagawa Prefecture. The castle is a stunning fortified stronghold built by the Doi Clan 1,000 years ago, around the time when the first Samurai warriors emerged.
Kintetsu’s tour offers more than simply sampling the cherry blossoms. Tour the castle, pick and eat fresh strawberries at a local farm, embark down beautiful Lake Ashi in a Kaizokusen pirate ship, plus enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet lunch of Japanese, Western and Chinese cuisine. There’s time for walking around the park and doing a little shopping too. No one puts together a better Japan tour than Kintetsu.
