Japan Cherry Blossom 2026 Forecast: Everything You Need to Know (LATEST UPDATE)
- Tokyo Localized
- Dec 19, 2025
- 4 min read
The first Japan cherry blossom 2026 forecast is out, and it’s that time of the year when tourists who are planning to visit in the spring painstakingly make travel plans. Don’t worry—as locals—we’ve got you covered.
Cherry blossoms or sakura are one of the most-awaited phenomena in Japan every year. The budding and blooming of cherry trees are, in fact, celebrated through what locals fondly call hanami, which literally translates to “flower viewing.”
All around Japan, there are no short cherry blossom viewing spots where locals sit down, have a picnic, and just savor the beauty and peace that sakura brings.
Do note, though, that hanami is not just flower viewing. Its true meaning is deeply rooted in the celebration of human life, both birth and death.
Whether you are visiting Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, or Sapporo in the spring, you will never be disappointed. You see cherry trees blossoming, from riverbanks to parks to streets. As long as you do your due diligence, you should be able to witness one of the most iconic phenomena in Japan.
The cherry blossom season in Japan is months away. But…now is the perfect time to start reading and making plans to make sure you will get the most out of your spring holiday.
Here’s everything you need to know about Japan’s cherry blossom season in 2026:
What is the best month to see cherry blossoms in Japan?
Cherry blossoms in Japan occur between March and May, hence there’s no definite answer to this question. It’s important to know where you are planning to go because sakura in Japan occur at different times in different prefectures. In some prefectures like Tokyo, cherry trees already start budding by the second or third week of March. But it’s a different story in Hokkaido where cherry trees bloom, typically in the final week of April to first week of May. Be sure to check the forecast dates below.
ALSO READ: 20 BEST CHERRY BLOSSOM SPOTS IN TOKYO
How long do Japanese cherry blossoms last?
From budding to full blossoms, the flowers of cherry trees in Japan typically last for 10 to 14 days. These are Yoshino cherry trees, which are the most common variety across Japan. Certain species may last longer.
When do cherry blossoms in Japan bloom in 2026?
Cherry blossom in Japan typically start in March. This often lasts for 1-2 weeks, from the budding of flowers until the full bloom period, which lasts only a few days, so it’s important to time your visit well.
Here's the first cherry blossom forecast from JMC, released on December 18:
Kochi - Flowering on March 20; Full bloom on March 27
Fukuoka - Flowering on March 20; Full bloom on March 29
Tokyo - Flowering on March 19; Full bloom on March 26
Hiroshima - Flowering on March 21; Full bloom on March 30
Nagoya - Flowering on March 19; Full bloom on March 28
Osaka - Flowering on March 24; Full bloom on March 31
Kyoto - Flowering on March 24; Full bloom on March 31
Kanazawa - Flowering on March 31; Full bloom on April 6
Sendai - Flowering on April 5; Full bloom on April 10
Sapporo - Flowering on April 28; Full bloom on May 1
Wakayama - Flowering on March 26; Full bloom on April 2
Kagoshima - Flowering on March 24; Full bloom on April 3
Aomori - Flowering on April 19; Full bloom on April 22
Nagano - Flowering on April 6; Full bloom on April 11
As we approach the cherry blossom season, the Japan Meteorological Corporation will release more updates soon.
Be warned! This is just a forecast. And like any other forecast, this is not 100% accurate. There were times when cherry blossoms got confused and prematurely bloomed in autumn. So, do your research and manage your expectations when creating an itinerary. Be sure to check this guide again!
Will there be a cherry blossom festival in 2026?
Yes! Japan celebrates hanami every year, and activities such as cherry blossom festivals have been in full swing for the last 4 years. Cherry blossom festivals typically fall between late March and mid-April or even early May.
Cherry blossom festivals in Japan take place in riversides, parks, roadsides, mountainsides, gardens, temples, shrines, business districts, and more. Make sure to do your due diligence.
Top 10 Best Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan
If you’re visiting Japan, cherry blossoms are everywhere! Here are the best cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan:
Chidorigafuchi (Tokyo)
Nakameguro River Park (Tokyo)
Philosopher’s Path (Kyoto)
Osaka Castle Park (Osaka)
Lake Kawaguchiko or Fuji Five Lakes (Yamanashi)
Hirosaki Castle (Aomori)
Himeji Castle (Hyogo)
Mitsuike Koen (Kanagawa)
Mount Yoshinoyama (Nara)
Nijukken Road (Hokkaido)
As a final note, if you wish to make the best out of your spring vacation in Japan, plan your trip well. Watch out for the cherry blossom 2026 forecast now and then to get a good read on their budding and blooming activities.
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