Cherry blossoms are one of the most anticipated gifts of spring. More and more residents from various Lithuanian cities and towns can enjoy this magnificent sight, as cherry blossom parks are rapidly becoming more popular.
Erika Stankevičiūtė, owner of Beža Familia and a Japanese health expert, says that this holiday symbolizes the mystical transformation of nature, which is important in the cultures of many countries. In addition, it has deep traditions and unique rules.According to the interviewee, flowering trees, which receive a lot of public attention, symbolize the cycle of life for the Japanese, and the custom of admiring Japanese cherry blossoms has its own name - Hanami.
Observe, but don't touch
"Observing, rather than touching, the cherry blossoms is one of the traditions of this holiday. It is not talked about much, but for the Japanese it is like a symbol of the fragility and transience of life, a remembrance of the departed and respect for them," says E. Stankevičiūtė.
"Hanami" is a spring festival of admiring cherry blossoms in Japan, with a long tradition dating back to the 8th century. These trees bloom for about 10 days in Japan, starting as early as February in the southern islands of Okinawa and as late as April in the northern island of Hokkaido.
Having spent a lot of time in the Land of the Rising Sun, the interviewee notes that the Japanese know how to look at life from the outside and be observers of their own lives. Touching flowers, hugging them, and holding them to their faces while taking pictures is incomprehensible to them.
"I really want to share this message, because its essence is very significant for those who cherish the tradition. Touching sakura is in no way recommended," says Erika, the owner of the Japanese clinic.
She has often observed how representatives of distant lands look with sadness at the falling petals, and describes their feelings as a perception of a life that passes quickly.
Remember the transience
Hanami, according to E. Stankevičiūtė, means observing the beauty of flowers and at the same time remembering our transience.
"Like spring flowers, we too bloom and fall. So, a sight that usually evokes a lot of positive emotions is a call to look back at ourselves, our goals and dreams. This is another opportunity to remember the meaning of life," shares E. Stankevičiūtė.
“Hanami” is a traditional Japanese celebration of the cherry blossoms, and the trees themselves have spread around the world in recent decades. Cherry blossom gardens have become popular in European cities and country parks. They blend beautifully into the urban landscape and delight people of all nationalities. Visitors here try to take pictures of the blossoms and themselves at the same time. Various art projects, concerts, and other celebrations are held there, which attract thousands of people.
We invite you to listen to a short video about sakura: