2026 Japan Cherry Blossom Forecast | Where Does Spring Begin?

Spring in Japan always begins with cherry blossoms.
In 2026, the season is expected to start with the early-blooming Kawazu cherry trees. By late March, blossoms will appear across Honshu, and from April onward, the cherry blossom front will move north toward Tohoku and Hokkaido.

This overview is based on the latest forecast released by Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC) and brings together three key points: the current preparation stage of cherry trees, the earliest blossoms to bloom, and the expected flowering periods across Japan.

*The charts show cherry blossom conditions as of January 8, 2026.
In Sapporo and Sendai, dormancy has largely ended, while cities such as Tokyo, Nagoya, and Osaka are steadily preparing for spring.

Although the pace differs by region, signs of spring are gradually appearing throughout Japan.

An Early Taste of Spring | Kawazu Cherry Blossoms (from early February)

This is the forecast for Kawazu cherry blossoms on the Izu Peninsula in Shizuoka Prefecture.
Kawazu-zakura are known for being among the earliest cherry blossoms in Japan. In 2026, blooming is expected to begin in late January and continue into early February.

Centered around the Kawazu River, the area is easy to explore on foot, with convenient access from the station and nearby hot spring towns—making it a popular destination for travelers who want to experience “Japan’s earliest hanami.”

Cherry Blossom Blooming Periods & Major Viewing Spots Across Japan

Kanto Region

Tokyo: First bloom March 20 / Full bloom March 27
Ueno Park, Meguro River, Shinjuku Gyoen, Chidorigafuchi

Chubu Region

Nagoya: March 20 / March 29 (Tsuruma Park, Nagoya Castle)
Kanazawa: April 1 / April 7 (Kenrokuen Garden, Kanazawa Castle Park)
Nagano: April 6 / April 11 (Matsumoto Castle, Takato Castle Ruins Park)

Kansai Region

Kyoto: March 25 / April 1 (Philosopher’s Path, Maruyama Park)
Osaka: March 24 / March 31 (Osaka Castle Park, around the Japan Mint)

Chugoku & Shikoku Region

Hiroshima: March 21 / March 30 (Peace Memorial Park, Shukkeien Garden)
Kochi: March 21 / March 28 (Kochi Castle)
Wakayama: March 27 / April 3 (Wakayama Castle)

Kyushu Region

Fukuoka: March 21 / March 30 (Maizuru Park, Nishi Park)
Kagoshima: March 25 / April 4 (Shiroyama Park)

Tohoku & Hokkaido

Sendai: April 6 / April 11 (Tsutsujigaoka Park)
Aomori: April 19 / April 22 (Hirosaki Park)
Sapporo: April 27 / May 1 (Maruyama Park, Hokkaido Shrine)

About the Best Viewing Period

Cherry blossoms aren’t only beautiful on the exact day of full bloom—several days before and after can be just as rewarding.
Planning your trip around the window between first bloom and full bloom often makes for a more relaxed and reliable hanami experience.

Information & photo source: Japan Meteorological Corporation (JMC)