Cherry blossoms, or sakura, remain one of Japan’s most beloved symbols of spring, captivating locals and travelers alike. In 2026, the sakura season is expected to unfold along its usual schedule, with minor variations influenced by weather. Whether this is your first cherry blossom experience or a cherished annual tradition, this guide provides the latest bloom forecasts, top viewing spots, festival highlights, and travel tips to help you fully enjoy the magic of Japan’s cherry blossom season!
*Latest Update: January 12, 2026
2026 Cherry Blossom Forecast: Major Cities Across Japan
Based on typical seasonal trends, and current weather conditions, bloom forecasts have been announced for locations across the country.
According to the latest information released on January 8, 2026, cherry trees in the Kanto and Kansai regions, including Tokyo and Kyoto, are expected to bloom in late March, with full bloom predicted from late March to early April. In northern regions such as Hokkaido, blooming will occur earlier, with peak viewing expected from mid-April to early May.
- Tokyo: Cherry blossoms are expected to start opening around March 20, with full bloom anticipated by March 27.
- Kyoto: Sakura should begin to appear around March 25, reaching their peak bloom by April 1.
- Osaka: Blooming is forecasted to start around March 24, with the flowers expected to be at their fullest by March 31.
- Fukuoka: Blossoms are likely to emerge around March 21, with peak flowering around March 30.
- Sapporo (Hokkaido): Among the latest to bloom, cherry trees are expected to start flowering around April 27, with full bloom by May 1.
Reference: Japan Weather Association, “2nd Cherry Blossom Bloom Forecast” (January 8, 2026)
Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots & Events in 2026
Japan offers a wide variety of hanami locations, from famous landmarks to hidden gems. Checking bloom forecasts and access information in advance can help you plan your visit to avoid crowds and enjoy a more fulfilling hanami experience. (Information as of January 8, 2026)
Hokkaido
This year, cherry blossoms in Hokkaido are expected to bloom earlier than usual. While full bloom typically occurs in early May, forecasts indicate blooms around April 27 and full bloom by May 1. Spacious spots such as Maruyama Park in Sapporo and Goryokaku Park in Hakodate provide relaxed viewing opportunities.
Tohoku
Peak viewing in the Tohoku region is expected from mid- to late April, with some areas blooming earlier than usual. Hirosaki Park in Aomori and the Samurai Residences street in Kakunodate, Akita, offer the charm of historic scenery combined with cherry blossoms.
– Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival (April 17 ~ May 5, 2026): Held in Hirosaki Park, this festival features over 2,600 cherry trees, night illuminations, and traditional boat rides.
Kanto
In the Kanto region, including Tokyo and Yokohama, cherry blossoms are expected to bloom slightly earlier than usual on March 20, with full bloom around March 27. Urban spots such as Ueno Park and along the Meguro River are easily accessible. In Tokyo, Ueno Park, the Meguro River, and Chidorigafuchi are especially popular.
Note that these areas may be crowded on weekdays as well as weekends, so check transportation options and local regulations before visiting.
– Chiyoda Sakura Festival (TBA: Late March ~ Mid April, 2026): Held around Chidorigafuchi in Tokyo, visitors can enjoy lit-up cherry trees along the moats of the Imperial Palace. You can enjoy Night Light-up from March 28 to April 08.
Chubu
In the Chubu region, including Nagoya and Nagano, peak bloom usually occurs from late March to early April, but this year is expected to be 4–5 days earlier. Takato Castle Ruins Park, known for its Takato Kohigan cherry trees, is a notable local highlight.
Kansai
In Kyoto and Osaka, cherry blossoms bloom from late March to early April. Historic sites like Kiyomizu-dera and Arashiyama in Kyoto, or Mount Yoshino in Nara, provide a spectacular contrast of history and sakura beauty. Popular spots include Kiyomizu-dera, Arashiyama, Maruyama Park in Kyoto, and Osaka Castle Park and the Mint Bureau in Osaka.
– Osaka Mint Bureau Cherry Blossom Viewing (TBA: Early April, 2026): A one-week-only event where visitors can walk through a tunnel of rare cherry blossom varieties for free.
Chugoku & Shikoku
Hiroshima and Matsuyama experience blooms from late March to early April. Spots such as Itsukushima Shrine and Dogo Park allow visitors to combine sightseeing with hanami.
Kyushu & Okinawa
In Kyushu, blooms are expected as usual from late March to early April. Don’t miss regional cherry blossom events such as Ohori Park in Fukuoka or the Yaedake Cherry Blossom Festival in Motobu, Okinawa.
Travel Tips for Cherry Blossom Season 2026
- Plan Your Stay in Advance
Cherry blossom season is one of Japan’s peak travel times, and accommodations in cities such as Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka tend to book out quickly. Securing your hotel several months ahead is highly recommended. - Avoid the Crowds
Famous cherry blossom spots can become very crowded, particularly on weekends. Visiting early in the morning or exploring lesser-known locations can offer a more relaxed experience. Be sure to check local traffic rules in advance, as popular areas often enforce temporary measures such as one-way pedestrian routes and other access restrictions. - Enjoy Hanami the Local Way
Bring along a picnic mat, light snacks, and drinks to fully embrace the hanami tradition. Some parks permit alcohol, making it possible to enjoy a glass of sake beneath the cherry blossoms. Hanami can also be a quiet, restorative experience—an opportunity to slow down, clear your mind, and recharge. Always confirm park rules and regulations before your visit. Please make sure to follow the rules, and bring back your trash if needed!
Wellness Benefits of Hanami (Experiencing Nature)
Spending time with cherry blossoms and in nature offers more than visual enjoyment—it can also positively affect your physical and mental health.
Research has shown that spending time in natural environments can reduce cortisol, a stress hormone, and help stabilize heart rate and blood pressure, promoting relaxation[1]. Taking a leisurely walk under the cherry trees or practicing deep breathing can refresh your mood.
In addition, exposure to sunlight stimulates the production of vitamin D, which supports bone health and immune function[2]. By intentionally spending time enjoying nature during sakura season, you can support both mental relaxation and physical well-being simultaneously.
Enjoying the 2026 Cherry Blossom Season
The 2026 cherry blossom season offers wonderful opportunities to feel the arrival of spring across Japan. Use bloom forecasts to plan your trip and enjoy the mental and physical benefits of spending time in nature. Combining cherry blossom viewing with local history and cultural attractions will make your experience even more memorable. Take in the stunning beauty of the sakura and enjoy a delightful springtime moment.
[1] Li, Q. (2010). Effect of forest bathing trips on human immune function. Environmental Health and Preventive Medicine, 15(1), 9–17.
[2] Holick, M. F. (2011). Vitamin D deficiency. Mayo Clinic Proceedings, 86(1), 50–60.
