posted on March 19, 2020    *forecast updated on April 2, 2020

  As mentioned in our last topics, cherry trees have started blooming a lot earlier than average because of the warmer-than-normal winter and the start of sakura season 2020 in Tokyo was declared on March 14, earlier than ever before! The majority of Tokyo’s Somei-Yoshino cherry trees will be in full bloom within a week, but there seem to be much less festive atmosphere than usual. Sakura places are always open for public and people enjoy strolling along cherry tree-lined streets, however, special events, food stalls and illuminations at night won’t be available at many cherry blossom viewing “Hanami” spots due to the Coronavirus outbreak. The government organizations across Japan are cautioning people to avoid unnecessary gatherings and crowded places and also requesting them to refrain from having stationary cherry blossom parties for hours in parks, riverside zones, etc. We advise you to check websites for the latest updates on cherry blossom festivals before visiting.

  Below is the latest cherry blossom forecast (sakura calendar 2020) released on April 2 by the Japan Weather Association. Below are the expected dates of blooming (Japanese map). Somei-Yoshino cherry trees, the most common variety in Japan, started blooming in Tokyo. Shidarezakura (Weeping cherry trees) in Tokyo Metropolitan parks and gardens (eg. Shinjuku Gyoen and Rikugien Gardens) are at their best this weekend. The dates in the English map indicate the best viewing periods of cherry blossoms.

an image for typical Hanami party

updated on April 2, 2020