Hana Matsuri is a celebration held across Japan to rejoice in the birth of the Buddha. The actual name for the birthday celebration is Kanbutsue, and different Buddhist nations celebrate the birthday on different dates. However, in Japan, the celebrations are held on April 8th, the peak of Sakura season, and this is why Kanbutsue is also popularly known as Hana Matsuri, or the Festival of Flowers. On this day, people across the country visit their local Buddhist temples to honor the life and teachings of the Buddha.
Let’s learn some more about this special day!