Japan has a special connection with nature, which I realize seems like a strange thing to say if you have ever visited Osaka or Tokyo, two enormous cities. However, Japan itself is mostly countryside and mountains and Japanese have a love for the countryside and all things "nature" including hot springs, autumn leaves viewing, hiking/camping, and of course 'Hanami" or viewing of the sakura of the cherry trees in spring. Sakura is a symbol of Japan and the practice of Hanami goes back many, many centuries. Some people today say that Hanami is an excuse for drinking, though this is not said in a bad way. In fact, it is indeed a good occasion for drinking and eating and singing and BBQ and generally spending time with friends and coworkers. Japan is a country of construction and destruction it is said, so Sakura is a sign of the new (construction) with hope and renewal and related feelings. Winters are historically cold in Japan, mainly due to poor insulation and lack of efficient heating, etc. in homes (which has changed in modern times...slowly in some cases), so warmer weather and the beauty of spring is greatly appreciated.

This time is the best for visiting Japan from abroad. Not too hot or cold. The summer heat is brutal, but right now is perfect.

(Above: I ask my wife the meaning of Hanami/sakura in Japan while walking through Osaka Castle Park on Saturday.

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