Entertainment

David Archuleta’s new song, “Crème Brulée,” is now available – here

WATCH THE “Crème Brulée” video here

Photo credit: Irvin Rivera

Singer-songwriter David Archuleta is back with his first taste of new music and what is sure to be his most delicious pop confection of a song with his new single, “Crème Brulée.” Written by David, Ryan Nealon, and Robyn Dell’Unto, and produced by Michael Blum, the sweet and seductive song is the first single off David’s upcoming EP, which will be released this summer.

“Crème Brulée,” a lighthearted and enticingly flirtatious pop hit that showcases David Archuleta’s remarkable vocal range and Latin heritage like never before, marks the beginning of a daring new era.

David blends English and Spanish in a way that feels as smooth and addictive as the namesake dessert. “All this time I’ve been singing Spanish covers, but I’ve never had that Spanish flair in my own pop music. I wanted to get in touch with my Latin roots, have fun, be flirty, and explore the sensual side of David.”

With infectious energy and a hint of Latin flair, “Crème Brulée” is a confident, fun-loving track that showcases David’s evolution as an artist—sultry, charismatic, and completely in his element.

With smooth, dynamic vocals and a hook that sticks like caramelized sugar, David teases the listener—giving just enough to leave them wanting more. “Someone was really after me and wanted everything from me right away, but you’ve gotta work for it if you want more from me. You may have had a taste that makes you go crazy (“yo te vuelvo loco” is “I make you crazy” in Spanish), but I’m not going to give it all just yet unless you’re really worth my time and it’s worthwhile for me.” 

“Crème Brulée” has all the ingredients to be a pop anthem for the year and is too irresistible to listen to just once.

Photo Credit Wes and Alex

Additionally, the official “Crème Brulée” music video can be found HERE. Nathan Kim, who has worked on projects for Charli XCX, David Guetta, and Lady Gaga, is the director of the edgy and intricately choreographed dance video. It shows David expressing his passion for dancing with the JA Collective dance trio. “The Crème Brulée video was so much fun to make with the choreography and a new creative release for me. I’ve always loved moving to music and so the more I’ve taken choreography/dance classes I’ve found a better outlet to feel liberated and express myself. Working with Aidan, Jordan, and Nathan Kim introduced me to a new style that was really satisfying. Dancing brings me a newfound confidence, and makes me feel like I’m more in touch with my body and sensuality,” states David.

Follow David Here:

Twitter 1.1M Followers

TikTok 1.2M Followers +  19.6M Likes

Instagram 640k Followers

Facebook 3.4M Followers

YouTube 842k Subscribers

Spotify 1.6M monthly listeners

www.davidarchuleta.com

 

 

March 24, 2025 by
Entertainment

The sold-out “Combo On The Run” presentation features an intimate live performance by Eraserheads, surprising fans

The iconic alt-rock band is set to visit select cinemas during its limited run

Photos by Lawrence Del Rosario
More videos here
Videos by Gelo Riego

Last night, during a sold-out screening of Eraserheads: Combo On The Run at a mall, the iconic Filipino rock group Eraserheads surprised the audience with a live performance

With a six-set performance, the multi-awarded band stunned the gullible audience with some of their greatest hits, such as “Superproxy,” “Combo on the Run,” “Alapaap,” “Spoliarium,” “Pare Ko,” and “Magasin.”

The pop-up performance was part of an initiative to reward devoted fans and rekindle the magic of in-theater experiences, encouraging audiences to support moviegoing culture in an era dominated by streaming.

As previously announced, the band is set to make select appearances in cinemas in the coming days to further fuel the excitement for the documentary film’s nationwide run.

Now open in more than 150 theaters nationwide, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run has received widespread acclaim from fans and critics alike. Billboard Philippines praised the film for being a “testament to the relatable human experience of finding healing and reconnecting with those who were once close to us.” Meanwhile, Pelikula Mania gave it a 4.5 out of 5 stars, calling it a “perfect tribute to an original Pinoy music icon.”

Directed by Diane Ventura, the documentary offers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the iconic Ang Huling El Bimbo reunion concert of 2022, unfolding against the turbulent backdrop of political division and the lingering uncertainty of the post-pandemic era. Featuring rare footage and never-before-seen interviews, the film takes audiences on a captivating odyssey through the band’s stories history, challenges, and triumphs.

The film further heightened the excitement by teasing the audience and fans during the end credits with information about the band’s next performance, ERASERHEADS: ELECTRIC FUN MUSIC FESTIVAL, which is scheduled for May 31, 2025, at the SMDC Festival Grounds in Pasay City and is expected to be another spectacular celebration of the band’s lasting legacy.

Warner Bros. distributes Eraserheads: Combo On The Run, which is produced by DVent Pictures and WEU. Images.

Check your local theaters for movie times and ticket availability. From March 21–23, 2025, Eraserheads: Combo On The Run will be showing in theaters across the country.

 

 

March 22, 2025 by
Food

Eng Bee Tin is offering a great discount on VYBE by BPI

Your Eng Bee Tin shopping is made even more enjoyable with VYBE, a digital e-wallet and rewards app from the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI).

When you use the VYBE e-wallet to spend at least Php 500, you can get a special 20% discount on your favorite hopia, tikoy, and other delicacies. The maximum discount is Php 500 per transaction. Just use your VYBE app to scan the QR code, and the discount will be applied immediately.

You have extra time to take advantage of the savings after the Lunar New Year because this offer is valid until March 31, 2025.

A digital e-wallet and rewards app, VYBE by BPI is made for safe and easy cashless purchases. It provides a straightforward way to handle payments and receive incentives, and it is available to non-BPI customers as well as BPI account holders with expanded capabilities.

Paying for your goods or transferring money to loved ones is quick and simple with VYBE. Regardless of whether they are new to VYBE or have an existing BPI account, users can use InstaPay to receive money from other banks or e-wallets and send money for free to other local banks and e-wallets. Continue using VYBE to receive exclusive benefits and enhance the value of your festivities.

March 21, 2025 by
Entertainment

At the end credits of Combo On The Run, Eraserheads promote their 2025 concert and new music

ERASERHEADS: ELECTRIC FUN MUSIC FESTIVAL is set to take place at SMDC Festival Grounds on May 31, 2025

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run expands to over 150 cinemas nationwide and counting!

A major event has been put in motion by The Eraserheads.

The news of an upcoming performance that is expected to be even greater than their previous one was an exciting surprise for fans who waited until the end credits of the Eraserheads: Combo On The Run movie. It would be an incredible experience to hear from them again. After witnessing their outstanding performance, I am eagerly looking forward to the exciting activities they have planned ahead!

The outdoor event, appropriately named ERASERHEADS: ELECTRIC FUN MUSIC FESTIVAL, is scheduled for May 31, 2025, at the SMDC Festival Grounds in Pasay City. Early bird tickets will only be available through PalawanPay beginning March 24, 2025, however specifics are still being kept under wraps.

Adding fuel to the excitement, the band also teased a brand-new song in the end credits, sparking speculation about an upcoming release in the future. If confirmed, this would mark the Eraserheads’ first new material in over a decade, following 2014’s “Sabado” and “1995,” which were later reissued on limited-edition vinyl with exclusive remixes in 2021.]

Eraserheads: Combo On The Run will be screening in more than 150 cinemas nationwide and has already received glowing reviews from early screenings. Rappler called it “pure nostalgia juice that no fan can resist” in their spoiler-free review of the film, while GMA News spoke fondly of the material, calling it a “history lesson on an important chapter of Pinoy pop culture.”

Directed by Diane Ventura, the docu-film offers an intimate, behind-the-scenes look at one of the most influential bands in OPM history.

To top it all off, during the documentary’s theatrical run from March 21 to 23, 2025, the Eraserheads will also be performing live and unexpectedly at an unnamed theater. Additionally, fans can see them at Rolling Stone Philippines LIVE’s debut! They will appear on one of the three covers of its debut issue on March 21, 2025.

For Eheads fans, 2025 is looking to be a historic year with a big concert, maybe new music, and a ground-breaking documentary. Watch this space for further information.

Warner Bros. distributes Eraserheads: Combo On The Run, which is produced by DVent Pictures and WEU. Images.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

March 21, 2025 by
Health and Wellness, Lifestyle

A Female Leader’s Path to Empowerment and Health

As a woman who has broken barriers in business, Rebecca Bustamante knows that true success begins with good health—and her journey with Fullerton Health proves it.

Among important Philippine sectors and companies, Rebecca Bustamante, CEO of Asia CEO Events, has long been a formidable presence. She has cleared the ground for professionals to take control of their lives and forge their own route to success as a motivational keynote speaker and the host of the nation’s biggest business forums and summits.

She is undoubtedly one of the best representations of what it means to be an empowered woman—one who inspires and brings about change while assisting others in achieving success. Beyond her career achievements, however, Bustamante is aware that taking control of one’s health is the first step towards true empowerment, and for her, working with Fullerton Health has been an essential component of that process.

With the intention of taking control of her health, she turned to Fullerton Health, a leading vertically integrated healthcare platform in Asia with a proven track record of providing enterprise healthcare solutions. As a woman who believes in the power of preventive care, she shares her story of health challenges and triumphs—all fueled by her trust in Fullerton’s executive health screening facility.

A Wake-Up Call to Prioritize Health

Bustamante’s journey to prioritizing wellness began with a moment that changed everything. In 2005, at just 38 years old, she was diagnosed with a brain tumor and only given six months to live. The news was devastating.

“I was paralyzed, I couldn’t function,” she recalls. “It was the biggest turning point of my life.”

Against all odds, Bustamante survived. But the experience left a lasting impact, reshaping her entire perspective on health. She realized that no matter how successful one becomes, it all means nothing if one’s health is compromised. That wake-up call made her more intentional about wellness, sparking a lifelong commitment to proactive healthcare and preventive measures.

Since then, taking care of her health has been at the forefront of her priorities. She knew that while she had achieved great success, maintaining her well-being was just as important as building her career.

Discovering Fullerton Health

In her search for a healthcare provider that aligned with her commitment to long-term wellness, she was introduced to Fullerton Health by her colleague and friend, Carmie De Leon, who happens to be Radlink Philippines’ Country General Manager and EHS Lead. Fullerton’s executive health screening offered a seamless, thorough, and personalized approach—something Bustamante knew was essential in maintaining her well-being.

“Upon learning about it, my husband and I were excited to experience Fullerton Health because we wanted to see if we were really looking after ourselves properly,” Bustamante explains. She added that her first executive check-up exceeded all expectations.

“It’s truly a five-star experience,” Rebecca shares. “We didn’t have to wait for the whole day just to get our results because Fullerton Health is efficient and personalized. In just three hours, we completed a full-body assessment. It felt like a business-class health experience.”

Taking Charge of Her Health with Fullerton

Through Fullerton’s comprehensive executive check-up, Bustamante, along with her husband, gained valuable insights into her health—all consolidated into one detailed report and thoroughly explained by Fullerton Health’s doctors. These results served as a guide for her wellness journey, helping her make necessary lifestyle adjustments.

“Fullerton doesn’t just give you test results—they guide you on what to improve and maintain,” Bustamante says. “It’s not just about diagnosing problems but about taking control of your health before issues arise.”

She also emphasized the convenience and efficiency of Fullerton’s services, which allowed her to focus on making meaningful lifestyle changes while balancing the demands of being a CEO and a mother. She shared how her experience with Fullerton Health made her realize the importance of treasuring time with family.

“If you love your family, you owe it to them to stay healthy. You don’t want to be a burden. Instead, you want to be present for your children and grandchildren,” she emphasizes.

When asked what advice she would give to others looking to take charge of their health, she states: “Don’t wait for a wake-up call. Your health is your greatest investment. Fullerton Health has given me clarity, confidence, and control over my well-being—and that’s priceless.”

A Commitment to a Healthier Future

Bustamante demonstrates through Fullerton Health that self-care is the first step towards real achievement. Her experience serves as evidence that putting one’s health first can result in a more fulfilled and capable life.

Her experience with Fullerton Health, which went beyond a simple executive check-up, strengthened her conviction that the best care is preventive care. She now looks forward to her yearly physicals, viewing them as a necessary step on her path to a better, more independent life rather than a chore.

 

 

 

March 21, 2025 by
Entertainment

Ame’s latest track, “Ipagpatawad Mo,” brings back the rockabilly of the 1960s with a contemporary twist

The track will be part of the band’s upcoming debut album, Kwentong Barbero

With their new track,“Ipagpatawad Mo” which is currently accessible on all digital streaming platforms through Evosound Philippines, Ame revitalizes 1960s rock ‘n’ roll with a modern twist.

“Ipagpatawad Mo,” a denim-clad anthem of passion and resistance, combines raw, visceral energy, electric rhythms, and guitar riffs mixed with blues. The song offers a high-octane listening experience that blends the band’s distinctive DIY attitude with a more refined musical approach, channeling the spirit of rockabilly while infusing it with a new, dynamic sound.

“We wanted a song that people can dance to,” Ame shares in an official press statement. “We’ve dabbled with the bluesy side of rockabilly, but we made sure to stay true to our creative vision. This track is special because it showcases our individual and collaborative strengths. Zarviel’s commanding vocal presence, the explosive guitar-drum interplay of Silas and Seuss, and Regit’s dynamic basslines  all come together to create a sound that balances madness and order.”

Produced by Max Cinco and Paulo Agudelo with Sam Marquez handling mixing and mastering duties, “Ipagpatawad Mo” doesn’t adhere to a specific era. Instead, it moves fluidly through time, weaving nostalgia with a modern edge.

Lyrically, “Ipagpatawad Mo” draws inspiration from a real-life story that bassist Regit encountered during his time as a barber.

“This is based on a story of a client of mine back when I was working in a barbershop during college,” Regit reveals. “He was a humble guy competing against a wealthy suitor for the heart of a woman he adored. Though her family favored the other man, he won her over through perseverance, humor and his talent for dancing. That became the heart of the song.”

“Ipagpatawad Mo” marks the first official single off Ame’s highly anticipated debut album, Kwentong Barbero—a collection of eight tracks, each inspired by stories Regit has heard over the years while cutting hair. The album promises a gritty yet heartfelt narrative that captures tales of love, struggle, and triumph through the lens of rock n’ roll.

On April 12, 2025, Ame will perform “Ipagpatawad Mo,” together with new songs and fan favorites, live on the second floor of Kowloon House on Matalino Street, Quezon City, to commemorate this new chapter.

“Ipagpatawad Mo” by Ame is currently available for streaming on all digital music platforms across the globe. Raise the volume, get on the dance floor, and allow Ame to take you on a unique rock ‘n’ roll experience.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

March 21, 2025 by
Automotive

Toyota Motor Philippines’ TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy encourages racers to push boundaries for improvement

Leading mobility company brings motorsports closer to Filipinos through racing school

Aspiring racers had the opportunity to experience the excitement of racetracks firsthand at the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy Philippines (TGRA), which was recently hosted at the Clark International Speedway by Toyota Motor Philippines (TMP).

Participants received instruction on the fundamentals of racing, appropriate racing etiquette, automobile handling strategies, and track braking points throughout the first half of the session.

In the second half of the program, students got to apply what they had learned during the orientation through guided track activities. The slalom activity tested the participants’ agility, while the ‘follow the leader’ activity allowed them to get a feel of the racetrack’s straights and corners by following the racing line.

The TGRA was met with enthusiasm by first timers, who composed a majority of the participants:

“I race go karts, so I wanted to try driving a car – to see kung anong pinagkaiba. It’s almost the same, but also different because the car is bigger. For me, I feel like mas masaya ito,” shared Karis Alexandra Santos.

“Since bata pa ako mahilig ako sa kotse and manood ng racing. I’m also fascinated by the mechanical aspects of cars. Kaya I took the opportunity to sign up nung nakita ko na may slot sa TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy,” shared Nemuel Obas.

“The TGRA makes it more accessible to get into this sport. It was beyond my expectations. Akala ko yung first few exercises lang gagawin namin – yung avoiding the cones and braking. Yun pala we also get to go around the track a few times and at a good speed,” shared Miguel Corrales.

“Pangarap ko makapag-drive sa speedway, sa track – yung ma-experience yung ganitong driving environment at ma-enhance yung skills ko, so inencourage ako ng mga anak ko mag enroll [sa TGRA]” shared Javi Rios.

“As a woman in motorsports, I’m excited to promote diversity and break down barriers in a traditionally male-dominated sport. I think the TOYOTA GAZOO Racing Academy is the perfect place to bring this passion of mine to life,” shared Ella Nicole Bornilla.

“The TGRA is our way of making motorsports more accessible to racing fans,” shared TMP Assistant Vice President for Marketing Services Andy Ty. “We’ll have more batches of the TGRA this year, so we invite those who missed this first batch to join us in the next ones.”

The TGRA was launched in 2014 as a training ground for hopefuls looking to kick start their racing career. Some graduates of the program have gone on to pursue professional racing careers, with some participating in the TGR Philippine Cup, TMP’s premier racing series.

Racing fans can continue to join in the fun at Race Weekend 1 of the TGR Philippine Cup, which will be happening this Saturday, March 22, 2025 at the Clark International Speedway. Admission is free.

The Automobile Association Philippines (AAP) has recognized the Toyota Gazoo Racing Academy Philippines, which is presented by Official Tire Partner GT Radial and Official Fuel & Lubricants Partner Petron. Toyota Financial Services Philippines, myTOYOTA Wallet, Denso, AVT, 3M, ROTA, Tuason Racing, OMP, and Kinto One are also supporting this event.

Go to https://toyota.com.ph/tgrphilippines for additional details about the TGRA and other TGRA events. For the latest information, follow TOYOTA GAZOO Racing on Facebook and Instagram, as well as the official accounts of Toyota Motor Philippines on Facebook and Instagram, ToyotaMotorPH on Twitter, and the Toyota PH Viber community.

 

 

 

 

 

 

March 20, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Haier has been named the top major appliance brand in the world of 2024

Officially, Haier has been named the top major appliance brand in the world for 2024. Based on 2024 volume sales data across important appliance categories, Euromonitor International Limited has awarded this honor. The brand’s dominant position in the worldwide market has been cemented by its unwavering dedication to innovation, quality, and customer happiness.

Haier has continuously fulfilled the demands of contemporary homes with an emphasis on energy efficiency, technology-driven solutions, and user-friendly designs. Customers all across the world have responded favorably to its innovative appliances and leadership in smart home integration, which has helped the brand keep its top spot in the market.

The claim, “Haier is the number one brand globally in major appliances in 2024,” is backed by extensive research conducted by Euromonitor International Limited. This certification highlights Haier’s dominance in home laundry appliances, large cooking appliances, microwaves, and refrigeration appliances. The ranking is based on unit share and 2024 volume sales data across retail channels, builder merchants, and the construction sector. This recognition reinforces the trust that millions of consumers place in Haier’s products every day.

Adding to its credibility, this claim has been reviewed and approved by the Ad Standards Council (ASC), ensuring transparency and accuracy in its communication. The ASC REFERENCE CODE: H0232P031325H further validates this recognition, providing consumers with confidence in Haier’s industry leadership.

Haier’s rise to the top has been driven by its commitment to continuous innovation and customer-centric solutions. From smart refrigerators with AI-powered features to high-efficiency washing machines, the brand continues to introduce groundbreaking technology that enhances everyday living. Sustainability and energy efficiency also remain key priorities, as Haier focuses on creating appliances that contribute to a greener and more sustainable future.

Haier continues to set industry standards, and this recognition as the top worldwide brand for major appliances is another significant milestone. Haier continues to lead the way in contemporary home solutions thanks to its continuous commitment to innovation and quality.

More Creation, More Possibilities.

 

March 20, 2025 by
Lifestyle, News

Collaboration fosters resilience, as demonstrated by the National Resilience Council’s colloquium

National Resilience Council (NRC) Co-Chairman for the Private Sector Hans Sy, in his message of
support, reiterates that resilience is a continuous journey and is a collective responsibility to build on
progress, promote innovation, and ensure lasting impact.

In order to further the interrelated goals of the Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction, Sustainable Development Goals, Paris Climate Agreement, New Urban Agenda, and other international commitments, the Philippines’ National Resilience Council (NRC), a science and technology-driven public-private partnership, brought together national and local governments, academia, civil society, and the private sector for the event “From Surviving to Thriving: Transformative Strategies through Multi-Stakeholder Partnerships and Innovations.”

As part of the NRC’s Adopt a City (AAC) Initiative, the 2025 Resilient Local Government Unit Program (RGLUP) Colloquium featured updates and developments from participating cities and municipalities. Through preparedness funding, prevention, pre-disaster recovery planning, and long-term resilience programs, this strategy allows firms to participate in risk reduction rather than just catastrophe relief. AAC encourages teamwork to create safer, more resilient communities by giving local governments more authority.

National Resilience Council (NRC) Executive Director Silvestre Barrameda Jr., NRC Vice Chair for the
academe Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin SJ, NRC Co-Chair Hans Sy, and NRC Vice Chair for civil service
organizations Austere Panadero listen as participants of the Adopt-a-City Initiative present their progress
towards disaster resilience.

The colloquium also welcomed NRC’s private and public sector partners, with notable participation from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, the Department of National Defense, and the United Nations ARISE Private Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies – Philippine network. The event opened with inspiring messages from NRC Co-Chairman for the private sector and SM Prime Holdings Chairman of the Executive Committee Hans Sy, NRC Vice Chairman for civil service organizations and Zuellig Family Foundation President Austere Panadero, and NRC Vice Chairman for the scientific organizations and academe and Director of the Manila Observatory Fr. Jose Ramon Villarin, SJ.

At the National Resilience Council (NRC) Colloquium, local government units in the Adopt-a-City Initiative deliver a public narrative and take part in a panel discussion with leading resilience experts.

Public officials take the opportunity to proudly expound on the programs developed together with the
support of the National Resilience Council (NRC) and other partners.

Cities in the AAC’s Prepare phase—Baguio, Iligan, Mandaue, and Tiwi, Albay—presented their innovative disaster resilience strategies. Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong emphasized, “Baguio’s resilience journey highlights the power of collaboration and national support.” Meanwhile, cities in the Adapt and Transform phase, the initiative’s next stages —Naga, Cagayan de Oro, Iloilo, Bataan, Manila, and Ormoc—highlighted their advanced strides. Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres-Gomez shared, “I am very proud to say that because of Project Transform, together with our esteemed partners, Ormoc City is always on track in terms of environmental stewardship and resilience.”

The National Resilience Council (NRC) Board launches the Resilience Competency Assessment
(CompAss) at the colloquium together with representatives of the Department of Environment
and Natural Resources, Department of National Defense, the United Nations ARISE Private
Sector Alliance for Disaster Resilient Societies – Philippine network, and the City Mayor of
Baguio, Hon. Benjamin Magalong, and Mayor of the Municipality of Tiwi, Albay, Hon. Jaime
Villanueva.

More than 150 members, partners, supporters and participants of the National Resilience Council
(NRC)’s programs came together to celebrate the achievements of local government units in the
realm of disaster risk resilience.

The introduction of the Resilience Competency Assessment (CompAss), a tool intended to improve local government capacities in disaster resilience, was one of the event’s highlights. The colloquium emphasized the value of multi-stakeholder collaboration in bringing about transformative change, drawing on the NRC’s mandate. The NRC and its partners are creating a resilient Philippines by fostering innovation and linking sectors.

 

 

 

March 20, 2025 by
Travel

Explore Japan’s Late-Blooming Cherry Blossoms: An Extended Spring Season

Although the early spring cherry blossom show in Japan is well-known, some of the most spectacular displays occur later in the season. These locations provide breathtaking late-blooming sakura, where the splendor of spring lasts a little longer, for those who miss peak bloom or would rather have a more sedate experience.

The star-shaped fort at Goryokaku Park in Hakodate, Hokkaido, is framed in delicate pink by cherry blossoms in late April and early May. The encircling most reflects the petals of the more than 1,600 trees that line the park’s paths. The entire scope of the flowers is seen from Goryokaku Tower, transforming the historic place into a sea of color. Lanterns illuminate the branches with a warm glow as night sets, giving an already remarkable scene a surreal feel.

In Aomori, Hirosaki Park transforms into a landscape of floating petals. In mid to late April, around 2,600 cherry trees bloom against the backdrop of Hirosaki Castle, and as the season progresses, fallen petals gather on the moat’s surface, creating the famous “sakura carpet.” Walking beneath the blossoms or rowing across pink-streaked waters makes for a hanami (flower viewing) experience unlike any other. Evening illuminations add to the charm, giving the park a quiet, almost ethereal glow.

In Miyagi’s Funaoka Castle Park, cherry trees cascade down the hillside, forming a tunnel of blossoms along the Shiroishi River. A short ropeway ride leads to a hilltop view where the pink canopy stretches out below, framing the distant mountains. From early to late April, the scene shifts with the light—soft pastels in the morning, golden hues at sunset, and glowing petals under evening lanterns.

In the historic streets of Kakunodate in Akita, weeping cherry trees drape over samurai-era homes, their branches swaying like flowing silk. Once a gift from Kyoto aristocrats, these trees now stand as a symbol of Kakunodate’s rich history. From middle to late April, visitors can walk beneath the blossoms, framed by the dark wooden houses that have stood for centuries. As dusk settles, the trees take on a softer glow, making the district feel even more timeless.

These places demonstrate that spring doesn’t end as soon as people think, even though Japan’s cherry blossoms are frequently thought of as a passing phenomenon. Hanami takes on a different pace in locations where the season persists, allowing visitors to slow down, appreciate the small nuances, and experience a slightly longer-lived aspect of Japan.

See the Cherry Blossom Forecast for more specific information on each region’s first bloom.

 

 

 

 

 

 

March 19, 2025 by