Hanami's Lilac Wonderland
The tradition of 'hanami', or flower viewing, transforms Japan into a breathtaking spectacle during the sakura season. This cherished custom invites people
to bask in the beauty of cherry blossoms, which paint the landscape in shades of pink and purple. The JMC meticulously tracks flowering dates across 1,000 viewing locations in 48 cities, offering travellers a comprehensive guide to witness this natural wonder. In 2026, the first blossoms are anticipated on March 20 in Tokyo and Nagoya, with full bloom expected in Tokyo by March 27. The forecast ensures that visitors can plan their travels, maximising their chances of experiencing the full splendour of the cherry blossoms. With e-visas now available, planning a visit to Japan for this ephemeral beauty has become more accessible than ever before.
Forecasting Sakura Blooms
The accuracy of the JMC forecasts is built on a foundation of detailed research. Their predictions are developed using various factors. These include the growth of cherry trees, historical bloom dates, and the temperatures experienced during autumn and winter. This information allows visitors to plan their trips around both the initial bloom and the peak of the flowering season. To further assist travellers, the JMC also provides a flowering meter, which allows people to track the progress of the blossoms as they unfold. The next forecast is set for January 22, 2026, helping visitors prepare for the spectacle. This thorough approach ensures travellers can witness the fleeting beauty of the sakura season.
Blossom Bloom Times
According to the forecast for 2026, the northern region of Hokkaido in Japan is expected to see its cherry blossoms bloom around April 27, reaching full bloom on May 1. In southern Japan, Fukuoka anticipates its blossoms to begin on March 21, alongside Hiroshima and Kochi. Osaka is predicted to welcome its blooms on March 24, with its peak anticipated on March 31. Yokohama's blossoms, located south of Tokyo, are scheduled to appear around March 21, with full bloom by March 29. The Kyoto region's sakura season is forecast to begin on March 25, reaching its peak on April 1. The final act of the season will unfold in Northern Japan in Muroran, Hokkaido, with full bloom predicted on May 3, 2026. These varied bloom times allow travellers to experience the beauty of cherry blossoms across Japan over an extended period.
