Perfect for the Cherry Blossom Season! Traditional Japanese Food and Drinks for Hanami Parties

Spring in Japan is synonymous with sakura (cherry blossoms), and there’s no better way to celebrate than with a hanami (flower viewing) party. This cherished tradition involves enjoying food, drinks, and the beauty of blooming sakura. Whether picnicking under the trees or celebrating at home, having the right Japanese food and beverages will bring out the season’s true spirit.

Savory delights: traditional hanami foods

Sakura onigiri – cherry blossom rice balls

Sakura onigiri are a treat for the taste buds and a feast for the eyes. These rice balls are often infused with salted sakura petals, which impart a delicate floral aroma and a slightly salty taste. This traditional snack symbolizes springtime in Japan, capturing the essence of the cherry blossom season. Many variations of sakura onigiri exist; some feature a filling of grilled salmon, umeboshi (pickled plum), or miso-seasoned tuna. Some feature sakura leaf wrappings. This gives the rice provide a subtle umami flavor that perfectly complements the sticky, slightly sweet rice. Whether enjoyed during a hanami picnic under the cherry blossoms or as a snack on the go, sakura onigiri makes an unforgettable springtime treat.

Chirashizushi – colorful scattered sushi

Chirashizushi is a colorful scattered sushi that combines a harmonious blend of flavors and textures. Unlike the usual sushi rolls, chirashizushi is served as a bed of vinegared sushi rice topped with various fresh ingredients, such as shrimp, egg, ikura (salmon roe, commonly salted or cured), lotus root, pickled vegetables, and sometimes even tuna. This dish is ideal for hanami parties or any outdoor event because it’s served at room temperature, making it practical and delicious. The vinegar seasoning balances the richness of the fish and eggs, while the toppings add pops of color, making it as visually stunning as it is tasty.

Futomaki – thick sushi rolls

Unlike the typical thin sushi rolls, futomaki are large, thick rolls perfect for sharing at a hanami party. These rolls are filled with ingredients such as cucumber, crab, tamagoyaki (Japanese rolled omelet), shiitake mushrooms, tobiko (flying fish roe), and sometimes avocado. Each bite delivers an incredible balance of textures, from the crispy cucumber to the silky omelet and the richness of the crab. The beautifully cut slices of futomaki are not just tasty but also a treat for the eyes. These rolls are typically served with soy sauce, wasabi, and pickled ginger, enhancing their flavor.

Yakisoba – stir-fried noodles

A popular festival dish, yakisoba is a stir-fried noodle dish made with wheat noodles, cabbage, pork, and a rich yakisoba sauce. This savory dish is a must-have at Japanese festivals and is perfect for outdoor settings like hanami parties because it’s easy to prepare and it stays delicious even as it cools down. Yakisoba sauce, a blend of soy sauce, sugar, and Worcestershire sauce, gives the dish a tangy and slightly sweet flavor. It’s often topped with a sprinkle of katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes) and dried aonori (green laver seaweed), adding another layer of flavor.

Tamagoyaki – japanese sweet omelet

Tamagoyaki is a Japanese rolled omelet that’s fluffy, slightly sweet, and often enjoyed as part of a bento box or as a snack during hanami parties. The omelet is made by layering thin sheets of egg, seasoned with sugar, salt, and sometimes a touch of soy sauce or dashi (Japanese soup stock). As the layers of egg cook, they’re rolled up to create a perfectly fluffy and savory omelet. Served in small bite-sized pieces, tamagoyaki is delicious with a light soy dipping sauce or even on its own.

Oden – Japanese hot pot

Perfect for the slightly chilly spring evenings during hanami, oden is a Japanese hot pot dish that consists of a variety of ingredients such as daikon radish, boiled eggs, fish cakes, and konnyaku (a firm jelly made from konjac yam), all simmered in a light dashi broth. Each item in the hot pot soaks up the flavorful broth, giving it a warm and comforting taste. Oden is often served in small bowls with a dipping sauce on the side. This dish is especially popular during colder weather, and its umami-rich flavor makes it perfect for sharing at a hanami party.

Karaage – japanese fried chicken

Karaage is fried chicken often marinated with seasonings like soy sauce, garlic, and ginger, then coated in potato starch or flour for an extra crispy finish. The juicy, flavorful chicken is perfect for picnics, and its crispy exterior and tender meat make it an ideal companion to beer or sake. Karaage is served in bite-sized pieces, making it perfect for snacking during hanami parties.

Ebi tempura – crispy shrimp tempura

Tempura, especially ebi (shrimp) tempura, is a popular deep-fried seafood dish in Japan. The shrimp is battered and fried, creating a light, crispy texture that pairs perfectly with tentsuyu tempura dipping sauce (usually soy sauce, mirin, and dashi) or matcha salt. Its crispy texture and delicate flavor make it an elegant and satisfying addition to any hanami feast.

Takoyaki – octopus balls

One of Japan’s most beloved street foods, takoyaki, are round, crispy dough balls filled with octopus, then usually topped with takoyaki sauce, mayonnaise, and a sprinkle of bonito flakes that dance from the heat. These bite-sized balls of goodness are perfect for casual dining or as an appetizer during a hanami party.

Edamame – salted soybeans

Edamame are young, immature soybeans that are usually boiled and sprinkled with sea salt. They make for a refreshing, healthy snack that’s simple and satisfying. The beans are eaten directly from the pod, and popping them out while chatting with friends is part of the fun. A staple at many Japanese gatherings, edamame pairs perfectly with beer and makes for a delightful hanami snack.

Sweet foods traditionally enjoyed at hanami parties

Hanami dango – three-colored mochi skewers

Hanami dango (traditional Japanese dumplings made with rice flour, often served on skewers) are iconic sweets enjoyed during the cherry blossom season and a must-have for any hanami party. These chewy mochi dumplings come in a vibrant trio of colors: pink representing sakura, white symbolizing snow, and green representing fresh spring grass. The skewers are delicious and visually stunning, with each color signifying renewal and the changing seasons. The soft, glutinous texture of the mochi makes for a delightful contrast to the slightly sweet syrup they are often dipped in. Hanami dango is the perfect snack to enjoy while lounging under the blooming cherry blossoms with friends and family.

Sakuramochi – cherry blossom rice cake

Sakuramochi is a beloved seasonal wagashi (traditional Japanese sweet) that captures the essence of spring in Japan. This sweet rice cake is filled with sweet red bean paste and wrapped in a pickled cherry blossom leaf, which adds a subtle, salty contrast to the sweet filling. The pink hue of the rice cake resembles the petals of sakura trees in full bloom, making it a perfect treat for hanami picnics. Combining the soft, chewy rice cake and the fragrant, pickled cherry blossom leaf creates a truly unique and refreshing taste that embodies the fleeting beauty of the cherry blossoms.

Refreshing drinks for a hanami party

Matcha – japanese green tea

Matcha, a finely ground green tea powder, is a traditional drink revered in Japan for its rich flavor and health benefits. Its earthy, slightly bitter taste perfectly balances the sweetness of hanami treats. The vibrant green color of matcha reflects the fresh, new beginnings of the spring season. It’s often enjoyed hot during chilly days or served iced on warmer days, making it a versatile drink to complement your hanami festivities. You can prepare it as matcha tea or use it in desserts like matcha-flavored mochi or ice cream. Its calming properties make it a perfect companion for peaceful moments under the Sakura trees.

Umeshu – Japanese plum wine

Umeshu is a sweet and aromatic Japanese plum wine made from ume (Japanese plums) steeped in alcohol and sugar. This golden-hued drink offers the perfect balance of sweetness and tartness and is often served chilled, making it an ideal choice for a refreshing drink during hanami parties. It pairs wonderfully with light, savory foods and is an excellent drink for those looking to try something different from traditional sake. The plums used in umeshu impart a subtle, fruity fragrance, enhancing the enjoyment of the drink. Make sure that alcohol is allowed at the hanami spot before drinking.

Sakura latte – cherry blossom-flavored coffee

Sakura latte is a seasonal coffee drink that combines espresso’s rich, bold flavor with cherry blossoms’ delicate, floral taste. This limited-edition drink is a favorite during the cherry blossom season, often appearing on the menu at Starbucks Japan, for example. The drink is made with cherry blossom syrup, steamed milk, and a hint of sweet cream, offering a refreshing take on a classic latte. The soft pink hue and lovely floral notes make it the perfect drink to sip while enjoying the hanami festivities.

Ramune – a classic Japanese soda

Ramune is a classic Japanese soda known for its unique bottle design, featuring a glass bottle sealed with marble. This fizzy, sweet soda comes in various flavors, including lemon-lime, melon, and grape, and is a refreshing, playful drink to enjoy during the warmth of a hanami picnic. The distinctive marble-sealed bottle adds an element of fun as you pop the marble into the neck of the bottle to start drinking. The sweet and carbonated nature of ramune makes it a hit with kids and adults alike, adding a sense of nostalgia and excitement to any outdoor gathering.

Conclusion

A hanami party is not just about admiring cherry blossoms; it’s about sharing delicious food, refreshing drinks, and unforgettable moments. Whether you indulge in sakura mochi, yakitori, or sip on umeshu, these 19 must-have hanami items will create an unforgettable sakura-viewing experience.

Looking for more tips and guides on authentic Japanese food and drinks? Visit Umami bites for detailed recommendations and everything you need to make your hanami party unforgettable!