Hideo Kumano, the institute’s chief economist, developed what he calls a “hanami cost index” by tracking 14 common items, like rice balls, bento box lunches, fried chicken and beer. The index has risen twice as fast as general inflation since 2019, he said in the report.
Cherry blossoms are in full bloom across Japan, prompting the usual rush of impromptu picnics, but prices are surging for the traditional food items often enjoyed while admiring the flowers.
A report from Dai-ichi Life Research Institute shows that the cost of typical food items eaten at the gatherings known as “hanami,” or flower-viewing parties, has risen 21.4% in the past six years.
