Tokyo Cherry Blossoms Bloom Five Days Early

Mar 19, 2026 | News On Japan

TOKYO - Cherry blossoms bloomed in Tokyo on March 19th, arriving five days earlier than the seasonal average and marking the start of the spring season in the capital.

At around 2 p.m., officials from the Tokyo Regional Headquarters of the Japan Meteorological Agency visited Yasukuni Shrine in Chiyoda Ward to observe the designated sample tree, where they confirmed 61 blossoms in bloom—far exceeding the official threshold of five to six flowers required to declare the start of the cherry blossom season.

Observers noted the sudden change from the previous day, when only two flowers had been confirmed, with an additional 59 blossoms opening within just 24 hours, signaling a rapid transition into full spring conditions.

Visitors at the site welcomed the announcement, with one remarking that it “feels like spring has finally arrived,” while another said that amid a recent run of somber news, the blooming cherry blossoms offered a moment of joy.

According to the Japan Meteorological Agency, the bloom matches the date recorded last year but comes five days earlier than the long-term average, highlighting a slightly accelerated seasonal shift this year.

Source: TBS

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