It was a chilly, overcast day. However, hordes of Tokyoites gathered in various spots around the city to take part in Ohanami, the viewing of cherry blossom trees in bloom, which is usually only possible for one and a half to two weeks each spring. Some people make the most of an afternoon by hitting various prime viewing spots and taking lots of photos while many others gather for drinking parties under the trees in famed places like Ueno Park and Shinjukugyoen.

This year, I and my two fellow contributors to this magazine, along with a few other friends had a brief lunch and some beers at Shinjukugyoen. We ate and drank for about an hour and a half before the rain began to fall steadily in the mid-afternoon. Other park patrons began to clear out quickly while we moved our setting to a safe place under the shelter of a huge pine tree. We were able to enjoy the afternoon for a little while longer. However, the rain persisted and eventually, our newly-found haven began to take on water and we were forced to admit our situation. By this time, the rest of the park had pretty much cleared out so Matt took advantage of an open grass area nearby and called for a game of frisbee, rain be damned. The rest of us followed his lead and took part in various outdoor sports, not worried about a drenching. But, the fun was not to last; Some park crew members asked us to leave and we, of course, obliged.

Sunday the 30th may have been the best chance for most people living in Tokyo to see the trees in full-bloom; By next weekend, the trees may not have many blossoms left. But, here’s to hoping for better weather and some worthwhile viewing next Saturday and Sunday. 

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