Cherry Blossoms さくら

One of my professors this year was Dr. Jim Field. When I mentioned to him that the four of us were both heading to Hokkaido for this exchange, he immediately lit up with suggestions and feedback. When this inter-university relationship was first established, Dr. Field was involved in the process, and has made the trip to Sapporo in past years.

The reason I write about it now is that he reminded me of the cherry blossom season, which we will get to witness. It turns out that Golden Week (an important series of Japanese national holidays) - and our subsequent arrival - are closely timed to the blooming of the cherry trees throughout Japan. Because Sapporo is on the Northernmost island of Hokkaido, this means that we will arrive at the absolute peak of cherry blossom viewing! ^^

http://www.japan-guide.com/e/e2011.html

This website shows the general weather and cherry blossom schedule for the entire country, which is quite delayed in the case of Hokkaido. Other cities have already seen their trees blossom, and the petals have long since fallen. On this japan-guide website, you can see the various parties around the country, as well as the fantastic scenic spots around castles and temples where these trees are usually planted.

The festival that coincides with these blossoms - hanami - is fantastic, and something I hope we also get to experience. Beautiful weather, drinking and eating under the flowering trees is unforgettable, and yet one more thing I'm looking forward to!!!!