It’s that time of year once again! Springtime is approaching faster than you think, and meteorology companies across Japan, including the Japan Meteorological Agency, have begun releasing their first forecasts for the cherry blossoms of this year. Hanami viewing has always held a very special place in the hearts of the Japanese people, while also being extremely popular among tourists and foreign residents. This year is certainly no different, with many people tuning in to the currently developing cherry blossom forecast, something we certainly had to be a part of.
Cherry Blossom Blooming Forecast Map 2026 – Credit: Japanese Meteorological Corporation
Being a seasonal flower, the cherry blossom trees will typically begin to bloom as the weather starts to warm up. This results in the blooming starting in the south and moving north, signifying the beginning of Spring for Japan along the way. Following this, the sakura trees continue to bloom, with full bloom typically occurring a week or two after the first flowers appear. This year, following this trend, the first openings for most areas are set to begin in mid-late March, with full bloom typically taking place from the final week of March to early April. The last place to bloom, Sapporo, is set to take place on April 28th, followed by full bloom on the first of May. It’s important to note that due to the warmer weather this year, the Japanese Meteorological Corporation is expecting blooming dates to not only happen earlier than normal but also vary, so make sure to keep an eye out!
Sakura-lined Meguro Canal in Tokyo – Credit: anek.soowannaphoom
Japan’s major cities are top picks for Hanami every year, and this year should be no different, so we made sure to jot down the estimated dates for each city so you know what to expect. It looks like Tokyo will actually be one of the first cities to open this year, being estimated to open on the 19th of March, and full bloom set to follow 7 days later on the 26th. Similarly, Fukuoka’s full bloom is projected to be three days later than Tokyo’s on March 29th, and the estimated first flowering is predicted to arrive only one day later on March 20th. Following this is Kagoshima, with the two major dates said to happen on March 24th and April 3rd.
The Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto, Famous and Popular Sakura Viewing Spot – Credit: takuya kanzaki
Kyoto, another major top spot for Hanami, is estimated to begin on March 24th and is meant to reach full bloom 7 days later on March 31st. Osaka – “The Nation’s Kitchen” mirrors Kyoto’s opening and full bloom dates of March 24th and the 31st. Nagoya, on the other hand, is another one of Japan’s earliest major cities and will have its first flowers on March 19th, with full bloom following on March 28th, nine days after the flowers look to open.
Beautiful Sakura Illuminations at Fukuoka Castle Ruins in Fukuoka – Credit: Blanscape
As you can see, though there is some variety between some of the cities, particularly those further north, the Cherry Blossom Season in all of Japan’s biggest cities is estimated to begin around the same period this year. However, these cities are the top picks for those looking to celebrate, and it can be easily predicted that they will draw in large crowds as they do every year. If this prospect is something that can be quite daunting to you, like it is for me, don’t worry, because we have you covered! Make sure to check out our post on some of the lesser-known areas you can visit around Tokyo and Kyoto for a much quieter cherry blossom experience.
Himeji Castle in Sakura Season at Full Bloom – Credit: Sean Pavone
With all this in mind, I hope you can now plan your Hanami experience for 2026 with ease of mind. Cherry Blossom Season can be a once-in-a-lifetime experience for anyone planning to visit Japan, and it definitely shouldn’t be ignored, even if you live in the country. So make sure to check out one of these fabulous viewing spots, and maybe we’ll see you there!
We will add updates to this post if the forecast shifts! Happy Cherry Blossom daydreaming for your future travels!
If you are in Tokyo, Kyoto, or Osaka for Cherry Blossom season, make sure to book your guide with us to experience the REAL hanami like a local!
Featured image by cowardlion
