Japan Meteorological Corporation releases first national cherry blossom forecast

Every year, as the plum blossoms begin to bloom in winter, people start wondering when the nation’s other iconic flower will start appearing, this time on the branches of sakura trees around the country. Cherry blossom forecasts are here to help, and the Japan Meteorological Corporation just released its very first prediction of the year for the blossoming of the Somei-Yoshino cherry trees, the most widespread type of cherry blossom in the country.

According to the corporation, the first blossoms will begin to open in Tokyo on March 22. Other noted metropolitan areas in the table on the right of the diagram below include Fukuoka and Nagoya on March 23, followed by Osaka on March 28 and Sendai on April 10.

According to the report, the first blossoms in Tokyo will appear four days earlier than the average year, and one day later than last year. If you’re planning a trip to the capital to view the blossoms, the peak period, according to this initial forecast, will be 30 March, with full bloom expected on this date. If you miss the cherry blossom period in Tokyo, however, there’s still a chance to catch the blossoms in other areas at a later time. With hotels likely to book up quickly, now is the time to make those holiday travel plans.

Source: Japan Meteorological Corporation

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