Albion Elementary English Language Learners (ELL) teachers Leah Kitamura and Kana Wiens recommend When the Sakura Bloom by Narisa Togo and Waiting for Hanami by J.P. Takahashi to welcome the spring season.
When the Sakura Bloom, illustrated by Narisa Togo, and Waiting for Hanami, illustrated by HifuMiyo, celebrate a special tradition in Japan when people gather to admire the beauty of cherry blossom (sakura) trees. This celebration is called Hanami. In Japanese, “hana” means flower and “mi” means to look.
Hanami is deeply important in Japanese culture, as the blossoms’ brief blooming period reminds people to slow down and embrace fleeting, special moments. The celebration brings families, friends, and communities together to relax, reflect, and welcome the arrival of spring.
Learning about Hanami helps students understand and appreciate Japanese traditions while celebrating Canada’s cultural diversity. Vancouver hosts cherry blossom festivals each spring, and many families enjoy Hanami-style picnics beneath the trees. Hanami also teaches us how seasonal change can offer renewal, hope, and new beginnings.
We chose these books because we love to see the cherry blossoms when they bloom. Happy spring!
When the Sakura Bloom and Waiting for Hanami are available at the SD42 District Resource Centre.
- Celebrate Hanami with the SD42 Hanami Virtual Library (click the images to browse).
