Sakura sakura – さくらさくら

It is said that “Sakura Sakura” became popular when it was used in the first act of the opera “Madame Butterfly” by the Italian composer Puccini in 1904. Since then, it is often played to communicate with the audience whenever foreign musicians, mainly rock musicians, visit Japan.

The history of this piece can be traced back to the late Edo period, and it seems to have been popular as a koto practice piece. The title is also simply called “Sakura,” but in the “Nihon Soukyoku Shu” of 1888, the name “Sakura Sakura” was written as the beginning of the lyrics, and that name is often adopted. At that time, the lyrics were also given as No. 2 above, but were changed to No. 1 in the “Uta no Hon” shouka collection of 1941. It is speculated that this may have been due to the fact that the literary style of the words may be difficult for children to understand. It is assumed that this may have been due to the fact that the use of literary-style words may be difficult for children, but today, the words are mixed depending on the generation that learned them.

The reason why this song has taken root in the hearts of Japanese people is probably because the elegance of its melody matches the image of cherry blossoms. The cherry blossoms and Kouyo(autumn leaves) are representative of Japan’s natural scenery, and while the latter can be enjoyed for a month or more, the cherry blossoms can be enjoyed for a mere two weeks at most. Perhaps it is because cherry blossoms resonate with the Japanese mentality and sense of impermanence. During this season, many people gather at cherry blossom viewing spots with picnic sheets. However, for the drunken Hanami crowd (including myself), being able to drink from noon on a calm day is probably more important than such a feeling of being in the mood.

At Chidorigafuchi, adjacent to the Nippon Budokan, you can enjoy cherry blossom viewing from a boat.

By the way, there is a theory that this song was originally in Hebrew. And there is even a tomb of Christ in Aomori Prefecture, Japan. Could it be true?