When you talk about Japan, it feels so attached to the Sakura Flower. Although not everyone has seen the Sakura in person, it seems like everyone already knows and has heard the name Sakura. Actually, Sakura is not only found in Japan, but also in several surrounding countries such as South Korea, India, and China.
In fact, now cherry blossoms can also be found in other countries such as Canada, Australia, the United States, or others. However, from some of these countries, Japan is most famous for the beauty of spring, which is marked by the blooming of Sakura flowers. Acknowledged or not, one of the most iconic things about Japan is Sakura Flowers. Learn the meaning of sakura flowers in Japanese Culture from this article.
Meaning of Sakura Flower in Japan
Although many people already know the form of cherry blossoms, in fact not all of them understand about the meaning and a number of unique facts of the flower. The flower that only blooms once a year actually has a very deep meaning and philosophy for Japanese society. Cherry blossoms are a respected cultural icon not only because of the beauty of the flowers, but also because they are a symbol of life, death and renewal.
Symbolizing Spring: Renewal of Life and Brilliant but Transient Life
Cherry blossom is a sign of the arrival of spring in Japan. The cherry blossom spring is a highly anticipated annual agenda. Unfortunately, this only lasted very briefly. In just two weeks, the cherry blossoms that bloom will fall to the ground like wind-blown snow. In the range from March to April, cherry blossoms will bloom in various regions in Japan. This moment has a special meaning for Japanese people. They have a tradition called hanami or flower watching. People will gather with friends or family during the Hanami celebrations. So, what are the special features of cherry blossom celebrations in Japan?
Brilliant, but Transient Life
The cherry blossoms that only bloom in early spring turn out to symbolize a brilliant but transience of life. Japanese cherry blossoms are an eternal metaphor of human existence. Cherry season is identical with beauty, intoxicating, and very strong, while also having a short life. This is why, cherry blossoms are believed to be a reminder that human life is fleeting so it is important to pay attention to various things.
When the cherry blossom season arrives, this can be a reminder that needs attention. Another lesson that can be taken from cherry blossoms is the suggestion to humans to live life with gratitude. Anyone must know how to enjoy life, spread happily with family and friends, or other things to fill this life as best as possible. However life is always happy and sad, there is life and death.
Aside from being a symbol of brilliant and transience, cherry blossoms are also believed to be a symbol of life renewal. Hanami, which is a hereditary tradition, is a ritual that has existed since the beginning of 710, long before the revival of feudal Japan. There is a belief that mountain gods are transformed into rice field’s gods and the existence of cherry trees is a marker of agricultural reproduction. It was during this time that Japanese people often traveled to the mountains to worship trees every spring. This also became the beginning of beliefs about early spring.
The emergence of cherry blossoms as a sign of the arrival of spring can be a symbol of renewal and optimism. The arrival of this bloom season also brings hope after a new dream when starting a new job or activity. There is a belief that when cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the future will also be present full of possibilities and hopes.
It turns out that cherry blossoms have meaning and are very important lessons in life. Are you interested in following the Hanami tradition in Japan? You can prepare your vacation trip during this year’s hanami festival. Do not forget to book your flight tickets on Airpaz. Enjoy your exciting trip!
