NEWS

Kyushu Region

First Bloom: Around March 16 in Uwajima, Ehime Prefecture
Full Bloom: By March 23–25 in areas like Kumamoto and Fukuoka
The southernmost major island, Kyushu, usually kicks off the sakura season. This year was no exception, with blooms peeking out mid-March and flourishing within the week.

Shikoku Region

First Bloom: Late March
Full Bloom: Around March 26–30
Shikoku, nestled between Honshu and Kyushu, enjoyed consistent bloom patterns. Kōchi was among the earliest bloomers on March 23.

Kansai Region

First Bloom: March 25–27
Full Bloom: April 1–3
Iconic hanami spots like Kyoto’s Maruyama Park and Nara’s Mount Yoshino reached full bloom just as the new school year and fiscal year began, making for symbolic fresh starts.

Chubu Region

First Bloom: Late March
Full Bloom: April 5–9
This mountainous central region saw slightly delayed blooms due to fluctuating temperatures. Kanazawa in particular reached full bloom by April 9, making it ideal for early April visitors.

Kanto Region

First Bloom: March 24 (Tokyo)
Full Bloom: March 29–30
Despite some cooler weather early in the month, Tokyo's sakura were right on schedule. Popular spots like Ueno Park and the Meguro River were in full bloom by the end of March, drawing large crowds for hanami picnics.

Tohoku Region

First Bloom: April 10–15
Full Bloom: Mid to Late April
As always, northern Japan lagged behind the central and southern regions, offering a "second wave" of cherry blossoms. Cities like Sendai saw blossoms by mid-April, perfect for travelers chasing blooms up the country.

Hokkaido

First Bloom Forecast: April 25–27
Full Bloom Forecast: April 30–May 2
The cherry blossom finale takes place in Hokkaido, Japan's northernmost island. Sapporo's famous Maruyama Park and the grounds around Goryokaku Fort in Hakodate are expected to burst into color just in time for Japan’s Golden Week holidays.