Hanami is derived from the Japanese word hana for “flower”, and mi “ to see.” Originally it referred to viewing any flowers, and it is unclear when the tradition began. In the Nara Period (710–794 CE) the favored flower for hanami was the plum blossom. Ume, Japanese plum, blooms in late winter.

In the Heian Period (794–1195 CE), the aristocracy began to favor the native sakura tree. The first official hanami celebration held beneath the cherry trees was in 812, hosted by Emperor Saga. But sakura were revered long before this, as the presence of the goddess Sakuya-hime. The site of the flowers indicated it was the right time to plant rice, and offerings of food and sake were made to the gods for a good harvest.

The party hosted by Emperor Saga featured food, drinks, music, and poetry, but was only enjoyed by the aristocracy. In the Edo Period (1603-1868), many Shoguns hosted large hanami parties for their followers, planted sakura throughout Japan and encouraged gatherings beneath the blooms. Today, everybody searches for a space beneath the flowers with their friends, family, food and drinks to celebrate the season.

At Bokksu, to honor this long-standing tradition, we’ve designed a limited edition snack box! Although spring won’t last long (as we’re sure you’re snacks won’t either) this box will serve as a reminder of the fleeting beauty
of the precious sakura flower and allow you to partake in the ancient traditions that surround it.

Hanami is derived from the Japanese word hana for “flower”, and mi “to see.” Originally it referred to viewing any flowers, and it is unclear when the tradition began. In the Nara Period (710–794 CE) the favored flower for hanami was the plum blossom. Ume, Japanese plum, blooms in late winter.

In the Heian Period (794–1195 CE), the aristocracy began to favor the native sakura tree. The first official hanami celebration held beneath the cherry trees was in 812, hosted by Emperor Saga. But sakura were revered long before this, as the presence of the goddess Sakuya-hime. The site of the flowers indicated it was the right time to plant rice, and offerings of food and sake were made to the gods for a good harvest.

The party hosted by Emperor Saga featured food, drinks, music, and poetry, but was only enjoyed by the aristocracy. In the Edo Period (1603-1868), many Shoguns hosted large hanami parties for their followers, planted sakura throughout Japan and encouraged gatherings beneath the blooms. Today, everybody searches for a space beneath the flowers with their friends, family, food and drinks to celebrate the season.

At Bokksu, to honor this long-standing tradition, we’ve designed a limited edition snack box! Although spring won’t last long (as we’re sure you’re snacks won’t either) this box will serve as a reminder of the fleeting beauty of the precious sakura flower and allow you to partake in the ancient traditions that surround it.