Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival 2017

Overview

Hanami and Japan go hand in hand, but what if you could indulge in the art of flower viewing (yes, that's what the term translates to in English) a bit closer to home? Well, that's where the Sydney Cherry Blossom Festival comes in. It's a celebration of everyone's favourite pink flora in Sydney's west.

Between August 18 and 27, the Auburn Botanic Gardens will transform their Japanese Gardens into a beautiful, blooming wonderland. You'll be able to ramp up your appreciation of the fleeting natural phenomena that is cherry blossom season by attending a massive viewing party in the lead up to spring. Tis the season, after all.

And taking in the spectacular scenery isn't the only thing you'll be doing. Over the two weekends of the festival (that is August 19-20 and 26-27), you'll be able to get your fill of Japanese entertainment by floating on over to two stages filled with sumo wrestling, J-pop performers and origami workshops. Then, eat your way through an array of Japanese food trucks doling out doses of bao, bento boxes, Japanese hot dogs, gyoza and okonomiyaki. This year there will also be a bar stocked with Asahi, sake and plum wine.

If you've got a day off and want to skip the crowds, they'll also be opening up the gardens for three days during the week (August 21, 23 and 25). Entry will cost five bucks, and they'll also have a free shuttle from Auburn Station if you're coming in by public transport.

Image: Kristina Paukshtite.