In a Japan without tourists, cherry blossoms come early
This year's cherry blossom was ahead of schedule. Normally one has to wait until mid-April to see that incredible [...]
NRT
La cherry blossom, this year, got ahead of schedule. Normally one has to wait until mid-April to see that incredible spectacle that in Japan goes by the name of "hanami". Or rather: "hanami" means the very ancient custom of enjoying the spring blossoming of trees. It is a true cultural phenomenon, prompting millions upon millions of Japanese to leave their cities for places where this spectacle of nature can be witnessed.
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Ironically, in this 2021 without tourists and with the long-awaited Olympics forced to take placei behind (almost) closed doors, the cherry trees bloomed earlier.
Photo from Pixabay
Cherry blossoms come early (and the show is magnificent)
In areas such as Nagano Prefecture, cherry blossoms (called "sakura") have bloomed two weeks early. An event due to rising temperatures, both due to global warming and the constant development of metropolises in the country. Thus, from Tokyo to Kyoto, hanami took off.
The Japanese, in full compliance with anti-Covid regulations, with masks on and distances scrupulously followed, organized their Picnic under the cherry trees. In some cases, the paths for walking under those beautiful foliage were "planted" to prevent people from staying too long. But that did not stop the Japanese from admiring the cherry blossoms.
Photo from Pixabay
The best places for hanami
According to the Japan Meteorological Corporation, flowering in Tokyo began last March 14. Never since 1953 had it started so early. Thus, some of the areas par excellence for hanami (beginning with the Yoyogi Park) were closed to the public, forcing citizens to admire the spectacle from afar.
To enter the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden one had to make reservations online: at a cost of $5, one could choose the date and time until April 25. Those who were able to make reservations could organize their picnic there with family members living together or in groups of up to four people. Nakameguro, which is among the most Instagrammable places for cherry blossoms thanks to the row of trees along the Meguro River, has remained open. But, thanks to the absence of foreign tourists, the crowds are much more manageable.
Another beloved place for hanami is the Chidorigafuchi Moat, around the Imperial Palace. Here you can walk on the promenade that runs along the moat. But, the real spectacle, can be admired from the water (the cost for boat rental is $15). Then, an hour from downtown Tokyo, there is theInokashira Park which is finally home to 500 cherry trees overlooking the lake. Extraordinary, magical and fascinating places. Which, for the second year in a row, are reserved for Japanese only.
Photo from Pixabay
Japan bans entry to foreign tourists
Japan continues to protect its borders. Foreign tourists have not been able to travel to the "Land of the Rising Sun" to admire the cherry blossoms and will not be able to do so to watch the Olympics either. Although Japan has lifted the state of emergency, the variants are scary. And the borders remain closed.
Currently, arrivals from 152 countries (including Europe) are banned. No hope for a summer reopening. Optimistic rumors speak of a resumption of tourism by next November, but more likely, the real reopening will take place in early 2022. By that time, the Japanese population will be vaccinated. And foreign arrivals will be looked upon with less fear.
