Welcoming Spring in Finland- A Season of blossoms, picnics, and new energy 😊
Hello Everyone,
The 1st of May - Wappu Day- is more than just a student celebration in Finland. It’s a joyful signal that spring has officially arrived. This year, though, spring made us wait a little longer. The snow lingered, the skies stayed grey, and we all kept our jackets on just a bit too long. But finally, the air has softened, the sun is stretching its hours, and nature is waking up in the most beautiful way.
One of the most magical signs of spring in Finland is the blooming of cherry blossoms.
Yes, you read that right-Sakura in Finland!
Touch of Japan in Helsinki
The story of cherry blossoms in Finland begins with a dream. In 2005, Norio Tomida, a Japanese businessman living in Helsinki, proposed the idea of creating a Sakura park. He had seen how much Finns loved traveling to Japan for hanami—the traditional cherry blossom viewing—and wanted to bring that experience closer to home. Between 2007 and 2009, the Japanese community in Finland donated and planted 152 cherry trees in Roihuvuori, a quiet neighborhood in East Helsinki.
Today, Roihuvuori’s Cherry Park (Kirsikkapuisto) is one of the most beloved spring destinations in the city. Every May, the park transforms into a sea of soft pink petals. It’s the perfect place for a picnic, a photo shoot, or just a peaceful walk under the blooming trees. The park also hosts the Hanami Festival, where people gather to celebrate spring with music, food, and cultural performances inspired by Japanese traditions.
What Else to Explore in Spring?
Spring in Finland is about more than just cherry blossoms. It’s a season of light, color, and energy. Here are a few more ways to enjoy it :
• Picnic at Töölönlahti or Kaivopuisto: Grab a blanket, some snacks, and enjoy the lakeside views or sea breeze.
• Visit Nuuksio National Park: Just a short trip from Aalto, Nuuksio is perfect for spring hikes, with trails coming alive with greenery and birdsong.
• Bike around Otaniemi and Espoo waterfront: The cycling paths are finally dry and open-perfect for a sunny afternoon ride.
• Attend spring events at Aalto: From sustainability fairs to student-organized festivals, spring is full of activities on campus.
• Explore Helsinki’s botanical gardens: Kaisaniemi Garden is a peaceful place to see spring flowers and exotic plants.
Spring in Finland may take its time, but when it finally arrives, it brings a quiet kind of joy. For me, it’s not just about the flowers or the sunshine- it’s about slowing down, breathing in the fresh air, and feeling connected again. Whether I’m sitting under the cherry blossoms in Roihuvuori with friends, biking through Otaniemi, or just enjoying a quiet moment with a coffee outdoors, spring reminds me to appreciate the little things.
So, this season, I’m choosing to pause, explore, and make memories-one picnic, one sunset, and one blossom at a time.
~ Sanower
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