The iconic sakura (cherry blossoms) will soon transform Japan into a breathtaking pink landscape as spring approaches. Locals and tourists eagerly anticipate the annual spectacle of cherry blossoms illuminating cities across the country. From the vibrant Somei-Yoshino cherry trees to the cascading weeping cherry blossoms (shidare-zakura), this seasonal display attracts millions of visitors from around the world.
Planning a trip to experience the best cherry blossom viewing in Japan? Here is a comprehensive guide to the 2025 cherry blossom forecast in Japan, including the latest sakura predictions.
When do cherry blossoms bloom in Japan?
The cherry blossom season in Japan typically starts in late March and peaks in early April in the central regions. The blooming period varies across different regions, with the warmer areas in Kyushu and Shikoku experiencing early blooms, and the colder Tohoku and Hokkaido regions experiencing later blooms. The blossoms usually last for about two weeks, starting with the initial bloom and reaching full bloom shortly after.
However, the actual blooming time can fluctuate due to weather conditions. For those traveling outside the peak bloom period, early blossoms can be enjoyed in southern regions like Kawazu and Atami City from January to February, and later blossoms can be found in colder areas like Sendai and Hokkaido between April and May.
Where to see cherry blossoms in Japan?
Escape the city and experience the early beauty of cherry blossoms in these locations, all within a few hours of Tokyo:
- Atami (Shizuoka Prefecture): Only 1.5 hours from Tokyo, Atami offers cherry blossom viewing from January to February.
- Kawazu (Izu Peninsula): Approximately 3 hours from Tokyo, Kawazu boasts 850 pink cherry trees lining a 4-kilometer stretch of the Kawazu River, creating a stunning spectacle.
- Miurakaigan (Kanagawa Prefecture): A quick 1.5-hour trip from Tokyo, Miurakaigan provides picturesque cherry blossom scenery in February.
Cherry blossoms typically bloom in Tokyo from March to April. In the Tohoku Region, they bloom slightly later, towards the end of March. For those visiting Japan later in spring, Hokkaido offers breathtaking cherry blossom views from late April to early May.
Cherry blossoms typically bloom in Tokyo from March to April. In the Tohoku Region, they bloom slightly later, towards the end of March. For those visiting Japan later in spring, Hokkaido offers breathtaking cherry blossom views from late April to early May.
With thousands of stunning cherry blossom locations, picking a single ultimate spot can be challenging. Discover the 10 Best Places to Visit the Cherry Blossoms in Japan.
The cultural significance of cherry blossoms in Japan
Cherry blossoms hold deep cultural meaning in Japan. Since the 8th century, Hanami (cherry blossom viewing) has been a cherished tradition, symbolising the fleeting beauty of life. The appreciation of cherry blossoms has influenced how Japanese people view life as cherishing the moment and embracing the impermanence of life or so-called wabi-sabi. Apart from this, Japanese people host several flower festivals and practice Hanami to enjoy and celebrate the cherry blossoms.
