People take photos of a blooming Somei Yoshino cherry tree at Yasukuni Shrine in Tokyo on Monday. The Japan Meteorological Agency officially confirmed the first blooming of the country's favorite flower in Tokyo. An official carefully examined the specimen tree and announced that more than five blossoms — the minimum required for the announcement — were flowering on it.
The announcement in Tokyo, which is enjoying warmer-than-usual temperatures, comes just one day after the blooming of the nation's first cherry blossom was confirmed Sunday in the southwestern city of Kochi on the island of Shikoku.
The JMA tracks more than 50 “benchmark” cherry trees across the country. The trees normally bloom for about two weeks each year from first bud to all the blossoms falling off. They are expected to reach their peak in about 10 days.
© AP
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browny1
It’s about time this antic - govt officials telling us when Cherry Blossom season starts - is relegated to the past.
In my city Cherry Blossom season has NOT been declared because the 1 tree that officials count the opened blossoms on has not reached 5 yet.
But 50 mtrs from my house is a beautiful tree in about 20% blossom - as are others scattered around the city.
I'm talking about the Somei Yoshino variety - the most common and popular across the country - and not the early blossoming types like Edo Higan, now in almost full bloom.
After today's warm weather, I'm sure tonight's local news will feature the tried and trusted expert, checking buds with a magnifying glass(true), counting the required opened buds 5+, and announce the season open with cheering onlookers and clicking cameras.
Me - after posting this I'm taking the dog for a walk to enjoy the undeclared blossoms.
HopeSpringsEternal
Maybe hold off until Thursday folks, as lots of China dirty unhealthy sands in the air today!
Japantime
This is great news. I always wait for the official announcement before heading out to see the trees. There will be many people celebrating with picnics this weekend. Hopefully I can get a good spot this year.