The magic of sakura
In the Netherlands spring starts at 20 March, though according to the Japanese traditions, spring starts when the cherry tree or sakura starts to blossom. Nature is an important part of the Japanese culture and the cherry blossom plays a major role. The breath-taking but brief beauty of the blossoms symbolizes the transient nature of life.
The cherry tree blossoms in March or April and this is a feast in its own right. During the short blossom period of two weeks it is a tradition in Japan to come together with friends and family to organize a picnic, drink sake and admire the blossom. The tradition of ‘flower viewing’ is called hanami. Ladies are wearing beautiful kimonos and everyone enjoys the beautifully white and pink coloured trees into the late evening. In Japan, you will find the sakura everywhere, on paintings, manga’s and kimonos. You do not have to travel all the way to Japan to enjoy the sakura season. This Japanese icon for beauty can be seen in specific elements throughout the hotel. The presence of the cherry blossom can best be sensed in the authentic Japanese restaurant Yamazato. Sakura is used as illustrations on tableware and fabrics for kimonos. The feeling of being in Japan is complete when you have a look at the serene Japanese garden where the sakura is blossoming. A new season means a new menu, offering the best products that spring has to offer, including tones of cherry blossom.
Not only the chefs at Yamazato are inspired by the cherry blossom, but also Okura’s pastry chefs have outdone themselves by creating a delicious afternoon tea. Savoury treats and sweets will be served with a touch of sakura. Moreover, Serre’s terrace offers you the perfect setting to celebrate the start of spring. You can enjoy a lunch, glass of wine as well as a 3-course Bibendum menu at the cherry blossom coloured terrace. At the Twenty Third Bar you can sip the Pink Sky cocktail with elements of cherry blossom while enjoying the mesmerizing view. Would like to enjoy the spring feeling a little longer? Nagomi Spa offers the Hanakasumi body treatment all year long, scented with cherry blossom and lotus flowers.
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