Spring into our collections
Depicting 'hanami', Japan's cherry blossom celebration
This woodblock print, from the collection at Cragside in Northumberland, celebrates the appearance in Japan of 'sakura', or cherry blossom, and the custom of gathering with friends and family under flowering trees to celebrate spring’s fleeting spectacle.
This custom, known as 'hanami', or flower viewing, dates back over a thousand years. Originating in the imperial court, it later becoming a cultural celebration enjoyed by everyone in Japan. During 'hanami', it’s typical to share a drink or picnic with friends under the blossoming trees and take time to relax and enjoy the ephemeral beauty of the flowers.
This print shows the flowering cherry trees along Shinobazu pond in Edo (present-day Tokyo). It is from the series 'Thirty-Six Views of the Eastern Capital' ('Tōto Sanjūrokkei'), by Hiroshige II, and was produced in about 1861–2.
" Samazama no
Koto omoidasu,
Sakura kana!
How many, many things
They call to mind,
These cherry-blossoms! "
Spring fauna
