Sakura, the cherry blossom, heralds the arrival of spring in Japan. Boughs upon boughs of blossoms decorate the sky in pale pink, their delicate silhouettes no larger than a thumb. Beneath the sea of flowers is the sea of blue plastic mats, where Japanese people gather to eat, drink and chat while soaking up the spectacle.

The annual hanami (flower viewing) celebration dates back to the Nara period (710-794 AD), but it was the deeper pink and purple plum blossoms, not cherry blossoms, that initially drew admirers. Japanese envoys had observed the custom among Tang dynasty intellectuals in China and brought it home with them. Over time, the Japanese practice increasingly became linked to the more delicately shaded cherry blossoms. During the Heian period (794-1185), court nobles began to plant wild cherry blossoms in the then-capital city of Kyoto, and Emperor Saga threw lavish imperial hanami parties.

Hanami gradually became a collective practice across Japan – and a big draw for visitors. The trick is timing it right: within as few as 10 days, the radiant pink petals fall off and decay, a reminder of the ephemeral beauty of life and the importance of living in the moment. This epiphany, and the flower-viewing practice that has inspired it, continues to hold a very special place in Japanese culture. Here’s what to know before joining in the festivities.

Mind your hanami manners

If you’re travelling in Japan during cherry blossom season, don’t hesitate to hold a hanami party like the locals, but do so while respecting proper etiquette. Most parks are open for hanami in designated areas. People come early in the morning to claim the best viewing spots; be modest when you take your place.