Have you ever heard ofHanami? In Japanese (花見), it literally means “flower viewing” and is the time when people gather under cherry blossom trees to celebrate the arrival of spring. This Japanese tradition has quickly spread to other parts of the world, with avenues lined with white or pink blossoms and botanical gardens transforming into veritable enchanted forests. In Milan , too, you can admire the cherry blossoms and celebrate spring by immersing yourself in Japanese culture.
This weekend, March 28–29, 2026, Japan’s most beautiful and heartfelt traditions arrive in the great Lombard city, in one of those green spaces that are now increasingly rare in the city. A two-day festival where you can discover more about a beautiful yet distant country, featuring books, exhibitions, workshops, and, of course, cherry blossoms.
HANAMI: The Japanese Spring Festival in Milan
When we say there are plenty of activities, we’re not exaggerating: one is more interesting than the next, and choosing which ones to attend is no easy task. On Saturday, March 28, and Sunday, March 29, you can visit the Japanese market, where you’ll discover creations inspired by Japanese craftsmanship and design. Following that, you can immerse yourself in the free exhibition “Kyo-Origami, ” in which artist Minori Shimizu transforms paper into a visual narrative, reinterpreting a technique passed down from her grandmother.
Staying on the topic of origami, you’ll be able to participate in a paid workshop dedicated to the art of paper folding, during which the exhibition’s artist will teach participants how to create a delicate little doll to use as a bookmark or a small envelope decorated withthe iconic crane, a symbol of peace and good fortune.
Of course, an introductory course to the culinary art of sake, complete with a tasting, is a must, to give your taste buds an authentic taste of Japan as well. For lovers of Japanese cuisine, this is undoubtedly the place to be: in the venue’s garden, a delightful food corner will await you with Onigiri, Teriyaki don, Karaage, Mochi, and Dorayaki, all freshly prepared by Ookini.
Among the scheduled activities will be the creation of traditional tea cups, workshops dedicated to making traditional wind chimes, presentations on the secret language of the kimono, and many other experiences related to the wonders of Japanese cuisine. At the HANAMI festival, hosted in the picturesque setting of Cascina Cuccagna, you can fully immerse yourself in Japanese culture.
Where, how to get there, and how much it costs
HANAMI is a project curated by Cascina Cuccagna, Giappone TVB, and LeCarrousel, conceived as a cultural bridge between Milan and Japan. An unmissable event dedicated to cherry blossoms that combines knowledge, craftsmanship, and beauty, hosted at the historic Cascina Cuccagna. To reach it easily by public transportation, take the M3 and get off at Lodi T.I.B.B. ( 10-minute walk); take line 92 to Viale Umbria – Via Muratori ( right across the street); or take line 90 to Via Tertulliano – Via Lattanzio (5-minute walk).