n the movie “Pretty Woman”, remember how Julia Roberts taught Richard Gere to “cop a squat” in the park? In Tokyo’s Ueno Park, it’s quite a bit more civilized, but that’s generally how it goes when the cherry trees are in bloom. The blossoms don’t last long, so in Japan, it’s worth showing off your best, casual look while sitting under sakura to soak in spring.

Ueno Park is like New York’s Central Park; there’s lots of green space, a huge zoo, and several museums. Hip walking shoes/boots and cool, designer messenger/tote bags are hugely popular. Bags usually port bento boxes (so people can have lunch under a cherry tree) and of course, cameras (to document the occasion).

The young and the old mix here, as do the modern and traditional, so you might catch a glimpse of a lovely Japanese lady wearing her authentic kimono in celebration. Of course, everyone wears a smile during sakura season.