Spring in Japan is a season of renewal and beauty, marked by the blooming of cherry blossoms, or 'sakura'. This year, the annual Cherry Blossom Forecast predicts blossoms will start flowering around the 25th of March. Each year, the Japan Meteorological Corporation releases updates to the forecast throughout the early part of the year, specific to individual cities and regions.
The time of year is celebrated through various customs and traditions, including hanami, where people celebrate with parties under the blossom trees, and light-ups, where trees are lit at night. It is also a time for haikus and music, celebrating the new season.
The Sakura Japanese Tartan
The Sakura tartan, from our Japanese Collection, is a unique representation of spring, drawing inspiration from Japan's love of cherry blossoms. This tartan symbolises the deep connection between Japan and the UK, celebrating a historical bond that dates back to the mid-19th century. Created in 2008 to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the first treaty between Japan and the UK (1858), and the arrival of Thomas Blake Glover, the Scottish Samurai, in Nagasaki (1859) This tartan is a testament to the enduring friendship between Japan and the UK, woven together by a shared appreciation for tradition and beauty.
The design of the tartan captures the essence of sakura, the cherry blossom, which is a quintessential symbol of spring in Japan. The white and pink colours come from the three hues of cherry blossom white, pale pink and a stronger pink, and the green represents spring itself.
Hanami: The Tradition of Flower Viewing
One of the most cherished traditions during the spring season in Japan is hanami (花見), which translates to "flower viewing." This custom involves enjoying the fleeting beauty of flowers, particularly cherry blossoms. From the end of March to early May, sakura trees bloom across Japan, creating a stunning spectacle of pink and white blossoms.
The Blossom Forecast
Each year, the weather bureau announces the sakura-zensen (桜前線), or cherry blossom front, which predicts the blooming period of cherry blossoms. This forecast is eagerly awaited by those planning hanami, as the blossoms typically last only a week or two. Families, friends, and colleagues gather under the blooming trees to celebrate and appreciate the transient beauty of sakura.
Spring in Japan
Spring in Japan is a time of joy and reflection, marked by the beauty of cherry blossoms and the rich cultural traditions that celebrate this season. The Sakura tartan is a tribute to this time of year, symbolising the enduring connection between Japan and the UK. As the sakura bloom and the hanami festivities begin, we are reminded of the beauty and impermanence of life, and the importance of cherishing each moment.
The Sakura Tartan is available by the metre or half metre, and can be made into a range of products including kilts, shawls and scarves.