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On the Miura Peninsula and the main islands of Japan, there are four distinct annual seasons, each with with its own special characteristics, holidays, and customs. Late-March is a time of transition from winter-cold to spring-warmth; and one of the most famous symbols of spring's arrival is when the cherry blossom (桜 SAKURA) trees bloom. Japanese people really appreciate the natural beauty of the SAKURA, and there is a tradition of gathering under the blooming trees, with friends, family, and/or co-workers, to have picnic-style parties -- which are called: 花見 HANA-MI (flower viewing). Needless to say, much attention is paid to when the SAKURA trees will bloom, so plans can be made for HANA-MI parties. In fact, Japan's National Meteorological Agency officially tracks　when and where the SAKURAs will bloom, moving like a weather-front from southern Japan, up into the north. Those broadcasts are called 桜前線 SAKURA-ZENSEN (cherry blossom front) reports. It is very likely that pretty SAKURA trees will be located somewhere near your Japanese house, and we hope you can enjoy their early-spring beauty once you start living here!

written by Goodfield