Translation and Meaning of: 花見 - hanami

The word 「花見」 (hanami) has an intriguing etymology that is deeply rooted in Japanese culture. This term is composed of two kanji: 「花」 (hana), which means "flower," and 「見」 (mi), which means "to see" or "to observe." Together, they describe the Japanese tradition of contemplating flowers, especially the ephemeral beauty of cherry blossoms, known as 「桜」 (sakura).

Hanami is an ancient practice whose origins date back to the Nara period (710–794) but gained popularity during the Heian period (794–1185). During this time, the Japanese aristocracy began to hold poetic presentations under the blooming cherry trees, celebrating the arrival of spring. This tradition was eventually adopted by various social classes, becoming a cultural event deeply rooted in Japanese society.

In addition to 「花見」 (hanami), there are seasonal and regional variations of this practice, such as 「夜桜」 (yozakura), which is the appreciation of flowers at night, illuminated by lanterns. Another similar form is 「梅見」 (umemi), focused on observing plum blossoms, which bloom a bit earlier than cherry blossoms. Both variations reflect an appreciation for nature and the transience of life, fundamental concepts in Japanese aesthetics.

Hanami is not just a passive contemplation; it is celebrated with picnics under the blooming trees, where friends and family gather to enjoy traditional foods and drinks. This social event, in addition to providing joy and unity, also symbolizes the ephemeral beauty of sakuras that, like many aspects of life, are fleeting but intensely beautiful.

Vocabulary

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Synonyms and similar words

• 桜 (Sakura) - cherry blossom
• お花見 (Ohanami) - Cherry blossom viewing
• 桜祭り (Sakura Matsuri) - Cherry Blossom Festival
• 花祭り (Hanamatsuri) - Flower Festival (usually related to Buddha)
• 春祭り (Haru Matsuri) - Spring Festival

花見

Romaji: hanami
Kana: はなみ
Type: noun
L: jlpt-n4

Translation / Meaning: Cherry flower visualization; Flower Visualization

Meaning in English: cherry-blossom viewing;flower viewing

Definition: Hanami is a Japanese tradition of appreciating cherry blossoms in the spring.