Brogdale Collections Charity is delighted to announce the welcome return of the Hanami event, an extraordinary celebration of cherry blossom and Japanese culture. After a brief hiatus, this captivating event will once again grace the National Fruit Collection’s orchards at Brogdale Farm, Faversham, Kent on April 13, 2024 from 10 am to 4 pm.
Hanami, a centuries-old Japanese tradition, translates to ‘flower viewing’ and is synonymous with the awe-inspiring spectacle of cherry blossoms in full bloom. In Japan, families and friends gather beneath the ornamental cherry trees from late March to early May to revel in the transient beauty of the blossoms and celebrate the arrival of spring.
Brogdale Farm, home to the National Fruit Collection, boasts 150 acres of meticulously tended orchards, showcasing over 3,000 varieties of fruit trees. Exhibiting a stunning annual blossom display.
Sponsored by The Great Britain Sasakawa Foundation the event at Brogdale Farm is a unique opportunity for visitors to immerse themselves in Japanese culture amidst the breathtaking backdrop of blossoming orchards in springtime.
Our National Fruit Collection guides will be leading tours of the orchards in blossom while author, Naoko Abe: ‘Cherry’ Ingram, The Englishman Who Saved Japan’s Blossoms will be hosting a talk about her book and a tour of the cherry blossom. Visitors will be able to bring their picnics and celebrate the start of spring as the Hanami tradition suggests.
The scheduled for April 13, 2024, promises a day filled with:
Cultural Immersion: Experience the richness of Japanese culture through Taiko drum performances, displays of Tameshiri and Iaijutsu sword techniques. Enjoy an exhibition showcasing various aspects of Japanese traditions and try on kimonos or discover the art of bonsai for a truly immersive experience. .
Japanese Tea Ceremony: Witness the traditional Japanese tea ceremony and experience the Way of Tea, Chado. With matcha tea and sweet tastings.
Interactive Workshops: Engage in hands-on activities such as calligraphy under the guidance of Japanese artist and calligrapher Koshu, or explore the art of Origami, the traditional Japanese paper-folding craft.
Sushi Making Demonstrations: Learn the art of making sushi from expert chefs, who will guide you through the process of crafting nigiri, rolls, and sashimi. Take home the skills to create your own sushi masterpieces.
The festival promises a day of joy, beauty, and cultural exchange, providing a unique opportunity for visitors to embrace the essence of Hanami without traveling to Japan.
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit brogdalecollections.org.
All proceeds from the festival support Brogdale Collections Charity in its mission to ensure the long-term public access and education at the National Fruit Collection.
ENDS
