Sakura season

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Originally uploaded by p1ckle.

I had an impromptu day off yesterday, so Katie, Kumiko and I drove to Osada Park just outside Nakatsu to indulge in one of the great Japanese traditions at this time of year - the appreciation of the Sakura, or Cherry Blossom. In essence, people go to anywhere where there are cherry trees, and appreciate them. The Sakura only lasts for about a week, but it's really beautiful whilst it's there - added to that there's another tradition which is even more fun; the hanami (i think that's how you spell it) which means 'Cherry Blossom Party'. Loads of pink lanterns are strung between the cherry trees, and people come at night, sit down with loads of food, sake, shochu and beer and have a bash right there under the trees. We're having a Nova hanami next week - should be a good time... Weather wasn't great when i went though, hence the grey, overcast pictures, but the weather has been really changeable right now. Not complaining though, it's just tough deciding whether to bring a coat. Bah.