Flower viewing, or 'hanami,' is a way to enjoy Hokkaido's short spring. But even this simple activity reveals many unique traits of the people of Hokkaido. Here are some common 'Hokkaido-isms' you'll find during flower viewing season.

1. Flower Viewing Isn't Just About Cherry Blossoms

In Hokkaido, cherry blossoms often reach their peak in May. This is around the same time that plum blossoms, azaleas, and moss phlox are also in full bloom. So, the Hokkaido style of flower viewing isn't limited to just cherry blossoms. It feels like a bonus to be able to see them all at once.

2. Appetizer Platters are a Must-Have!

Hokkaido residents love their appetizer platters (hors d'oeuvres). These are round platters loaded with various side dishes and snacks that go well with drinks, allowing you to enjoy many different foods from a single plate. Appetizer platter culture is deeply rooted in Hokkaido, making an appearance at almost any celebration or gathering, like birthdays, New Year's, and Christmas.

When Hokkaido locals get together for flower viewing, you're more likely to see them sharing a large appetizer platter and having a lively time than eating individual bento boxes!

3. Spotting Locals Enjoying Hanami in Neighborhood Parks

While Hokkaido has several famous cherry blossom spots, many areas don't have any at all. It's not practical to drive for hours just for flower viewing. As a result, you'll often see people enjoying hanami in a nearby park where flowers are blooming.

4. BBQ No Matter How Cold It Is

The people of Hokkaido enjoy a good BBQ, even in the cold. No matter how chilly it gets, they'll power through, shivering with determination. To people from outside Hokkaido, this might seem strange, but Hokkaido's cherry blossoms can scatter and disappear in an instant due to the cold. If you miss this season, you have to wait another year. The Hokkaido way is to enjoy flower viewing while staying warm with a BBQ.

By the way, depending on the region, people are divided between 'Genghis Khan' (grilled mutton) fans and 'Yakiniku' (grilled meat) fans. Either way, meat cooked outdoors is absolutely delicious!

5. Hanami is a 'Golden Week Leisure Activity'

Hokkaido's flower viewing season falls around Golden Week. For this reason, many residents consider hanami one of the leisure activities for the long holiday. However, it's not always the main event. It seems more common for locals to have the attitude of 'doing some flower viewing while we're out doing something else.'

6. Using Small Chairs Instead of Picnic Blankets

In spring, the temperature can fluctuate greatly throughout the day, which can cause condensation to form on picnic blankets, making them wet. Since people often have Genghis Khan or Yakiniku BBQs during flower viewing, sitting on a blanket is rather inconvenient. The typical Hokkaido mindset is that since they're traveling by car anyway, bringing a bit of extra luggage is no problem.

The Secret to Hokkaido-Style Hanami: Making the Most of a Short Spring!

In Hokkaido, it feels like winter lasts for six months, and the other three seasons fly by in the remaining half of the year. Depending on the weather, the peak cherry blossom season can be over in a single day. That's why when spring arrives, people embrace it to the fullest. We hope you enjoy flower viewing to your heart's content!

*Images are for illustrative purposes only.