3 Meanings of Sakura Flowers in Japanese Culture, One of which is the Symbol of Short Life

Kapanlagi.com - Sakura flowers are very synonymous with Japan. Sakura flowers represent beauty, purity, and a beautiful yet short life. The beauty of sakura flowers has attracted the attention of the general public, both inside and outside Japan. Behind that beauty, there is a deep meaning of sakura flowers for the Japanese people.

In Japanese culture, sakura flowers are also often associated with the hanami tradition. This tradition is carried out by holding a celebration or small picnic under the blooming sakura trees. In addition to celebrating the beauty of spring and enjoying moments with loved ones, this tradition can also be a way to appreciate the meaning of sakura flowers.

So, what is the explanation of the meaning of sakura flowers in Japanese culture? To find out, just read the following review.

1. Meaning of Sakura in Japanese Culture

Meaning of Sakura in Japanese Culture (credit: unsplash)

In Japanese culture, the meaning of sakura (cherry blossom) holds deep significance. It is believed that sakura teaches valuable lessons about life to humans. Additionally, sakura symbolically represents beauty, purity, and the fleeting nature of life. For a clearer understanding, here are explanations of several meanings of sakura in Japanese society:

1. Symbol of Purity and Beauty

Sakura is considered a symbol of pure and perfect beauty. Its beautiful form, with soft petals in shades of pink or white, portrays elegance and purity. Sakura also reminds humans of the beauty of nature and the brevity of life.

2. Symbol of Transience

Sakura only blooms for a very short period, approximately one week. This represents the transient nature of human life. Sakura teaches us to appreciate every moment in life because, like cherry blossoms, life passes by quickly.

3. Symbol of Change and New Life

The presence of sakura also symbolizes change and new life. The blooming of sakura signifies the end of winter and the arrival of fresh spring. It teaches us to face changes with optimism and embrace every new phase of life.

2. Types of Sakura Flowers

Types of Sakura Flowers (credit: unsplash)

The general public, especially outside of Japan, often mistakenly think that sakura is a single type of flower. However, sakura flowers actually consist of various types. Each type of sakura flower also has its own uniqueness and beauty. Here are some of the most common types found in Japan:

1. Somei Yoshino

This type is the most commonly found in Japan. Somei Yoshino sakura flowers have white petals with a hint of pink at the bottom. The trees are large and have many flowers.

2. Yamazakura

This type of cherry blossom has larger petals and is pink or white in color. This type of cherry blossom grows wild in the mountains and has a fragrant aroma.

3.Shidarezakura

This type of cherry blossom has characteristic branches that curve and hang like a waterfall. Shidarezakura cherry blossoms have pink petals and grow in dense clusters.

4.Kanzan

This type has pink petals and grows in large clusters. Kanzan cherry blossoms are also known as "sakura cherry blossom" and have a dramatic and enchanting appearance.

5.Fugenzo

Fugenzo cherry blossoms have pure white petals and grow in dense clusters. This type is often considered a symbol of purity and beauty.

3. Hanami Tradition

Hanami Tradition (credit: unsplash)

Talking about the meaning of cherry blossoms would not be complete without mentioning the tradition of Hanami. Hanami literally means "viewing flowers" and is a tradition of admiring the blooming cherry blossoms in spring. The Japanese people are very enthusiastic about welcoming the sakura season and take the time to have picnics under the blooming sakura trees.

The tradition of Hanami has been around for thousands of years and is still an important celebration in Japan today. This tradition involves families, friends, and colleagues gathering in parks or along rivers to enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms. Some traditional foods that are often served during Hanami include onigiri, bento, and sekihan.

Usually, Hanami starts in the first half of April in the Kanto and Kansai regions of Japan. However, the blooming time of cherry blossoms can vary each year depending on the weather conditions. The peak beauty of cherry blossoms usually only lasts for one week.

The tradition of Hanami symbolizes togetherness, the beauty of nature, and reflection on the fleetingness of life. Seeing how beautiful the cherry blossoms bloom in such a short time reminds us to appreciate every moment in life and make peace with the changes that we cannot control.

Those are some brief reviews related to the meaning of cherry blossoms in Japanese society's culture. Hopefully, it will be beneficial and can broaden our knowledge.

(kpl/psp)