The cherry blossom (sakura) is Japan 's unofficial national flower. It has been celebrated for many centuries and takes a very prominent position in Japanese culture.
There are many dozens of different cherry tree varieties in Japan , most of which bloom for just a couple of days in spring. The Japanese celebrate that time of the year with hanami (cherry blossom viewing) parties under the blooming trees.
public baths :
In past times, when many houses in Japan were not equipped with private bathtubs yet, public baths ( sento ) provided people with a place to wash themselves and meet neighbors.
Nowadays, as most households have an own bath, the number of traditional sento has been decreasing. On the other hand, new types of public baths and bath complexes, which feature a range of different pools, saunas, fitness centers, etc. have been emerging.
In hot spring resorts, public baths are usually provided with hot spring water, while normal water is used elsewhere.
With the exception of some new-type bath complexes, public baths are separated into a section for women and men, and no swimming suits are worn. Read more about bathing rules .
anual events
