posted on March 21, 2023

  Cherry blossoms started blooming a week ago, and today the Japanese tradition of cherry blossom viewing, or hanami, is back after 3 years of absence in the country. The flowers are almost in full bloom and Ueno Park is crowded with visitors, particularly with those gathering for food and drinks under the trees, while being seated on the big blue tarps. People can now choose whether or not to put on face masks, but some restrictions will be kept in place along Ueno Park’s central path. According to the latest cherry blossom forecast, the full-bloom of Somei-Yoshino in the central Tokyo is estimated around March 23. The joyful mood of hanami will continue for another week.

!! It is important to note that temperatures, rain and wind may affect the cherry blossom period across Japan. The dates largely depend on the weather during the last few weeks before blooming.