The cherry blossom is one of the most popular flowers in Japan. It blooms in May in Hakodate. People enjoy cherry blossom viewing in ways they appreciate the blossoms under the trees or go for picnics. Goryokaku Park and Hakodate Park are good places for the viewing. These places are crowded with people having an outdoor barbecue called Jinghiskhan, which features lamb and various kinds of vegetables cooked in a special pan. You see the blossoms there beautifully lit up after sunset.