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Cherry Blossom Forecast 2026: Complete Sakura Season Guide

Plan your perfect hanami (cherry blossom viewing) experience with our comprehensive 2026 sakura forecast. Get first bloom and full bloom dates for 11 major Japanese cities, explore viewing locations on our interactive map, and track real-time bloom status across different regions of Japan.

The cherry blossom season, known as sakura season in Japan, is one of the most anticipated natural events of the year. Each spring, millions of visitors and locals gather for hanami (cherry blossom viewing parties) to celebrate the fleeting beauty of these delicate pink and white flowers. Our comprehensive 2026 cherry blossom forecast provides essential information for planning your sakura viewing experience across Japan's most popular destinations.

The 2026 cherry blossom forecast covers 11 major cities from southern Kyushu to northern Hokkaido, including Tokyo, Kyoto, Osaka, Hiroshima, Fukuoka, Nagoya, Kanazawa, Sendai, and Sapporo. Forecast data is provided by the Japan Meteorological Corporation, the official weather agency of Japan, ensuring accuracy and reliability for your travel planning.

Understanding the difference between first bloom (kaika) and full bloom (mankai) is crucial for planning your visit. First bloom occurs when the first flowers open, while full bloom represents the peak viewing period when approximately 80% of the blossoms are open. The best time for hanami is typically 2-3 days after full bloom, when the cherry blossoms are at their most spectacular.

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First Bloom and Full Bloom 2026 Forecast

Forecast as of December 18, 2025

The timeline below shows the predicted first bloom (kaika) and full bloom (mankai) dates for 11 major Japanese cities in 2026. First bloom occurs when approximately 5-6 flowers open on the observation tree, while full bloom represents peak viewing when about 80% of blossoms are open. Click on any city name to view its location on the interactive map below.

CityMarchAprilMay
3/24
4/3
No bloom data for May
3/203/29
No bloom data for AprilNo bloom data for May
3/203/27
No bloom data for AprilNo bloom data for May
3/213/30
No bloom data for AprilNo bloom data for May
3/243/31
No bloom data for AprilNo bloom data for May
3/243/31
No bloom data for AprilNo bloom data for May
3/193/28
No bloom data for AprilNo bloom data for May
3/31
4/6
No bloom data for May
3/193/26
No bloom data for AprilNo bloom data for May
No bloom data for March
4/54/10
No bloom data for May
No bloom data for March
4/28
5/1

Created by Nippon.com based on data from Japan Meteorological Corporation. Forecast is as of December 18, 2025.

Note: Bloom dates can vary by 5-7 days depending on weather conditions. Warmer temperatures accelerate blooming, while cooler temperatures delay it. Check back regularly for updated forecasts as the season approaches.

Forecast Map 2026

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Regional Cherry Blossom Status

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Understanding Japan's Cherry Blossom Season

What is Hanami?

Hanami (花見) literally means "flower viewing" and refers to the traditional Japanese custom of enjoying the transient beauty of cherry blossoms. This centuries-old practice involves gathering under sakura trees with family, friends, or colleagues to enjoy food, drinks, and the spectacular display of pink and white flowers. Popular hanami spots include parks, temple grounds, and riverbanks throughout Japan.

Best Cities for Cherry Blossom Viewing in 2026

Based on our 2026 forecast, here are the best times to visit major Japanese cities for cherry blossom viewing:

  • Tokyo: First bloom March 19, Full bloom March 26 - Experience sakura at Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, and along the Meguro River
  • Kyoto: First bloom March 24, Full bloom March 31 - Visit Maruyama Park, Philosopher's Path, and the iconic weeping cherry at Heian Shrine
  • Osaka: First bloom March 24, Full bloom March 31 - Enjoy cherry blossoms at Osaka Castle Park and Expo '70 Commemorative Park
  • Hiroshima: First bloom March 21, Full bloom March 30 - See sakura at Peace Memorial Park and Shukkeien Garden
  • Fukuoka: First bloom March 20, Full bloom March 29 - Early bloomers can enjoy sakura at Maizuru Park and Nishi Park
  • Sapporo: First bloom April 28, Full bloom May 1 - Late-season viewing at Maruyama Park and Odori Park in Hokkaido

Planning Your Cherry Blossom Trip

When planning your 2026 cherry blossom viewing trip to Japan, consider the following tips:

  • Book accommodations early: The sakura season is peak travel time in Japan, with hotels and ryokans booking months in advance
  • Monitor weather conditions: Warm weather accelerates blooming, while cold weather delays it. Check forecasts regularly as your travel date approaches
  • Visit multiple locations: Different elevations and microclimates mean bloom times vary even within the same city
  • Respect hanami etiquette: Clean up after yourself, don't damage trees, and be mindful of noise levels in public spaces
  • Consider regional variations: Southern cities like Kagoshima and Fukuoka bloom earlier, while northern cities like Sendai and Sapporo bloom later

Cherry Blossom Varieties in Japan

While the Somei Yoshino variety is the most common cherry blossom tree in Japan (accounting for about 80% of all sakura trees), there are over 200 varieties of cherry trees throughout the country. Each variety has slightly different bloom times, colors, and characteristics, extending the overall sakura viewing season.

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