Paratroopers from the U.S. Army 2nd Infantry Brigade Combat Team, 11th Airborne Division, board a C-130J Super Hercules in preparation for a joint forcible entry exercise during Joint Pacific Multinational Readiness Center 24-02 at Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska.

Yokota News

Yokota, JASDF celebrates beginning of spring through Friendship Hanami

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Alexzandra Gracey
  • 374th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
YOKOTA AIR BASE, Japan --  

Community members and leaders representing the U.S. Air Force and Japan Self-Defense Force (JASDF) came together to view and celebrate the first sakura blooms of the season during the Operational Support Wing (OSW) -JASDF Bilateral Friendship Hanami at Yokota Air Base, Japan, March 30, 2024.

Hanami, a traditional Japanese custom, is held annually to celebrate springtime and the appearance of sakura, or cherry blossoms. In addition to viewing the cherry blossoms, attendees were prepared bento lunches, watched a koto performance, participated in a bingo game and interacted with the JASDF mascot, Hayate.

The OSW-JASDF Bilateral Friendship Hanami presents the opportunity for U.S. Air Force and JASDF members to participate in traditional culture and customs together, further strengthening the bonds and partnerships between nations.