Read before you go: Here are the official notices from park authorities regarding cherry blossom activities at the respective venues.
This winter might feel like the coldest one yet, but cheer up because it doesn’t look like it’ll drag on for much longer. The Japan Meteorological Corporation has just updated the cherry blossom forecast for 2021, which suggests spring will arrive sooner than usual for Tokyo. It predicts that sakura could appear as early as March 15 in Tokyo, 11 days ahead of the usual schedule, and reach peak bloom by March 22.
Hiroshima has already reported sights of cherry blossoms, with flowers expected to reach peak bloom by March 25. Kyoto’s flowers are predicted to bloom on March 17 (11 days earlier than usual) while Osaka can expect to see its cherry blossoms from March 20. The pink flowers will reach Sapporo last, with blooms expected to appear from May 1.
As always, the timing of the blossoms are at the mercy of whatever unpredictable weather conditions lie ahead. We’ll keep you informed of any updates to the forecast.
Some sakura festivals have already been cancelled this year as the government is advising against holding the usual hanami (flower-viewing) picnics and gatherings due to Covid-19. But, fret not, you'll still be able to admire the pink flowers on strolls around Tokyo's best parks and gardens.
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