Japan’s Cherry Blossom Season to Kick Off on March 21

Japan’s cherry blossom season is set to begin on March 21 in Tokyo and Miyazaki Prefecture, with warmer weather expected to accelerate blooming nationwide. According to a forecast by private weather company Weathernews, the country can expect its iconic flowers to bloom at a pace similar to or slightly faster than usual.

The forecast, based on over 2 million reports from users, field surveys of popular viewing spots, and temperature observations, predicts key locations will see their first blossoms in early March. These include Kumamoto Castle (March 22), Ueno Park in Tokyo (March 22), and Kochi Park (March 22).

Blossoms are expected to reach full bloom by late March, with the Tohoku region seeing an earlier-than-usual peak bloom in early April. The forecast also notes that warmer temperatures will prompt faster blooming, particularly in eastern Japan.

A new cherry blossom forecast will be released on March 12, providing further updates on the season’s progress.

Source: https://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2025/03/06/japan/cherry-blossom-forecast-2025