Hanami ( cherry blossom viewing ) is the highlight of the spring. For a few days, delicate pink white blossoms cover the trees, then cascade to the earth. For some it is a time to contemplate their beauty and the ephemeral nature of life.

“The perfect blossom is a rare thing. You could spend your life looking for one, and it would not be a wasted life.”  Katsumoto

For others it’s a great chance to get drunk with your mates in the park. At famous hanami spots, such as Yoyogi Park, the grass is covered in a patchwork of blue plastic sheets. If it’s a work outing then the youngest person in the office, usually has the duty of arriving as soon as the park is open to grab a spot for the company’s blue sheet.

“Too many beers. Long line for the toilets.  Nowhere to pee in a park filled with trees.” Anonymous