Despite the unnecessary demands of Tokyo’s (hopefully outgoing) governor, Shintaro Ishihara, many people have already been out and about under the cherry blossoms this week. All of whom have, as expected, been enjoying themselves in a manner befitting recent events.
But, however people celebrate hanami, one constant is the military-like precision that goes into organising it. Not only do a time, place, and numbers need to be finalised and finely tuned, but the actual spot itself can often resemble a small, well equipped village; the likes of protective sheeting, furniture, and phenomenal amounts food and drink feasibly allowing those present to stay there for months.
Of course, there’s nothing at all wrong with that, but at the same time, it was nice to see a group of fellas with some cans from the convenience store just potter over. Put down some newspapers. And happily settle down for a few hours.
Don says
That’s a great scene. Sometimes I think people create such a production around events that the event itself gets lost. The simple approach often distills things back down to what’s important.
Lee says
My thoughts exactly Don.
ameiji says
What a view, Lee! Hanami crave has struck me so hard just right now. 🙂 But in our neck of the woods I’ll have to wait ’till May maybe.
Lee says
Yeah, it’s a lovely spot. One of my favourites. Be patient. May will arrive in no time!
Lori says
Beautiful! Where is this?
The US sent me back home, but I’d love nothing more to be in Japan sitting under a sakura tree right now.
Lee says
Sorry to hear that Lori. I hope you can come back soon.
This is in Tachikawa. It’s a beautiful little river all through the year, but especially so during cherry blossom season.
Matt says
Simple is always best for my money.
Lee says
Yeah, the simple approach is the one I always prefer.
Maria says
“(hopefully outgoing) governor”
lolololo such a british way to put it!
I really love those trees.I wish I could smell them!
Lee says
I never though of that when I wrote it! But yeah, it’s certainly a very polite way of putting it. Especially so considering my opinion of the man!
James says
What a great shot! May I suggest you make a book? Please?
Lee says
Thanks James! A book would certainly be nice…
domo. says
shintaro ishihara’s comments about hanami reminds me of what happened in China during the Sichuan Earthquake, all the television programs were changed to reports of the Sichuan earthquake and all entertainment facilities (karaoke, bowling, etc) are closed for a whole week. At the time of the earthquake I thought that this is right and respectful, but now when I think back, I don’t know if it’s a little extreme..
Lee says
Yeah, it’s a tricky one. One without any right or wrong answers I think.