January 19, 2017
Aya Chilcote
O
kinawa hosts the earliest hanami, or flower viewing, in all of Japan. The hanami signifies the conclusion of winter and the dawn of spring. Cherry blossoms, or sakura, are symbolic themselves; their ephemeral beauty is characteristic of the concept of mono no aware (the pathos of things), a Japanese phrase describing the transient nature of beauty and the bittersweet sadness of their passing. This deep reflection of mortality has made cherry blossoms a common figure in Japanese art. Sakura are also revered as an indication of good fortune and love—fitting for the transition into a new season. The tradition of hanami in Japan is centuriesold. Its origin lies in the Nara Period (710–794), where people gathered for the viewing of ume
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(plum) blossoms. By the Heian Period (794– 1185), sakura began to attract more attention and the term hanami became colloquially synonymous with festivals exclusive to the celebration of cherry blossoms. Today, thousands of people flock to the flowering trees to enjoy cheerful companionship and watch eisa dancers and taiko drummers march through the dreamy scenery. MCCS Tours+ is offering tours to the Nago Cherry Blossom Festival on January 28 and 29. Enjoy an eisa performance, cultural dances, folk music and hanami set against a picturesque view of the East China Sea. The tour will run from 11:30 a.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday. Tickets for the tour are $23 for adults, $16 for children aged 3 through 11; children 2 and under
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"The Nago Cherry Blossom Festival may provide some of the best photos you’ll take on-island." are FREE. Please bring yen for additional spending at the many unique food booths at the Festival. Oh, and don’t forget your camera! The Nago Cherry Blossom Festival may provide some of the best photos you’ll take on-island.
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