We might be heading into the cooler months, but you can put the change of season on the deep freeze when you head to The Collective this April and May, as they celebrate the Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival.

Be transported to a floral dreamland when you ascend the stairs to The Collective’s rooftop bar where the pink cherry blossoms of the spring season have burst to life. Treat it like a mini getaway and indulge in the exclusive drinks menu highlighting Japanese tipples, featuring Roku gin cocktails, Kirin beer and sake. Savour the Japanese flavours when you order from Umami, one of the five restaurants slinging delicious dishes at The Collective. Nibble on a special snack menu of crispy panko nori prawn and tempura salmon, or tuck into a Osaka-style okonomiyaki vegetable pancake with bonito flakes and spicy wasabi mayo.

To add to the experience, you’re invited to delve into the ancient art of shaping your own Bonsai tree on April 10 and April 24. Under the cherry blossoms on The Collective’s rooftop, experts will guide guests through a masterclass in bonsai cultivation, shaping, and maintenance. When you’ve sculpted your masterpiece, you can take your Bonsai tree home with you.

Want to up your chopping game in the kitchen? Bring your own knives to The Collective on Thursday April 18 or Thursday May 2 to learn the skill of Japanese whetstone sharpening, a traditional method of knife sharpening. Osamu from Yuushin Japanese Kitchen Knives and Stone will help you master the long-lasting skills to increase the lifespan of your knives so you too can chop like a chef.

Both the bonsai masterclass and knife sharpening class include a Roku gin cocktail and snacks from Umami to soak in the spring festival.

If you would like to escape to Japan without leaving the Gold Coast, head to The Collective’s website to book your table at the Japanese Cherry Blossom Festival.