At last, winter's grip is loosening and spring in Japan is on its way. Soon cherry blossoms will explode across the archipelago, and parks around the country will be full of smiles and picnic tarps. That's right: it's hanami (cherry-blossom viewing) season again — my favorite time of the year.

Like a pink wave rolling north with the warmer winds, hanami season is a special time in Japan. It's a time to eat, drink and be merry as the tender pink petals herald a change of season. Locals and those from further afield flock to nearby sakura (cherry blossom) trees to celebrate the end of winter and the fun times to come. Hanami parties are often known for drinking and revelry, but these gatherings are also quite child-friendly. They're a great excuse to get out of the house and start enjoying the great outdoors once again.

A few years ago, I wrote in these pages about some of the best hanami spots for families in Tokyo. Those are still valid and worth a look if you're planning a picnic in the metropolis. But the capital is not the only place, or the best, to have a hanami. There are millions of sakura trees in Japan: from the islands of Okinawa to the northern reaches of Hokkaido.