Japan is gearing up for the start of its cherry blossom season, with the Japan Meteorological Agency predicting that the iconic Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms will begin blooming in Tokyo, Kochi, Nagasaki, Kumamoto, Miyazaki, and Kagoshima on March 23, 2025. The blossoming is expected to be accompanied by unusually warm weather, with temperatures in various locations soaring past 25 degrees Celsius, reminiscent of summer conditions.
On the weekend of March 22 and 23, Tokyo will experience higher than normal temperatures, akin to those usually found in mid-May. This climatic shift presents an early indication for cherry blossom enthusiasts, as it initiates the peak season for viewing these delicate flowers. The cherry blossom season in Japan traditionally lasts about ten days, attracting locals and tourists alike to engage in hanami, the practice of appreciating the transient beauty of cherry blossoms.
According to the latest forecasts from the Japan Meteorological Agency, the blooming of cherry blossoms is officially determined through careful observation of “standard trees” in various locales. These trees are monitored to establish the exact timing of the bloom. Specific criteria must be met for an official announcement: at least 5 to 6 flowers must bloom on the ‘standard tree’ for the date of blossoming to be declared. Furthermore, the date signifying full bloom, or “mankai,” occurs when approximately 80% of the flowers are open.
This year, Kochi is noted for having the most instances of early blooming cherry blossom announcements in the country, followed closely by Kumamoto and Fukuoka. Interestingly, Tokyo and Kagoshima rank third in frequency of early bloom announcements. It is crucial to understand that the blooming does not always follow a strict geographical pattern; occasionally, blossoms could even emerge in Kanto, which includes Tokyo, before they appear in southern locations.
The iconic Somei Yoshino cherry blossom variety is selected as the standard for observing blooming times. This particular tree is linked closely to Tokyo’s blooming traditions, as the Somei Yoshino tree at Yasukuni Shrine serves as a benchmark for the cherry blossom season in the capital. This variety is a hybrid of Oshima Zakura and Edohigan, developed in Somei village, now part of Komagome in Toshima, Tokyo, during the late Edo and early Meiji periods. Originally named Yoshino Zakura, the variety was later standardized as Somei Yoshino.
In recent years, climate change has affected the blooming patterns, leading to a growing number of cases where blossoms do not appear simultaneously, particularly noted in Kagoshima. In instances where the cherry flowers have fallen prematurely, these petals may still be factored into determining the 80% threshold required for the full bloom announcement.
Cherry blossoms, symbolic of the fleeting nature of life, have long been celebrated throughout Japan. The annual onset of sakura season draws relatives and friends together beneath the blooming trees, where communities often congregate to share food and drink in appreciation of the blooms. This cultural tradition emphasizes the profound relationship between nature and societal connections in Japan.
Tokyoites eagerly anticipate the blossoms as they prepare to gather in parks and along riversides, engaging in the traditional hanami gatherings. As the temperatures rise and flowers begin to bloom, a sense of excitement fills the air, heralding the arrival of this cherished seasonal event.
Outside of Tokyo, other areas will also experience the early onset of cherry blossoms, with Kochi previously recognized for having the earliest bloom announcements nationwide. In Kumamoto and Fukuoka, cherry blossom enthusiasts will also have the opportunity to enjoy the beauty of the flowers, as temperatures mirror those typical of summer.
This year’s early blossoming showcases the ongoing impact of environmental change on Japan’s cherished cherry blossom season. Gardner’s and botanists continuously adapt their observations methods and criteria to reflect this evolving phenomenon while maintaining the cultural significance of the cherry blossom viewing tradition across Japan.
As March approaches its end, the cherry blossoms will bloom, bringing with them a vibrant atmosphere filled with color, beauty, and community connection. With each year bringing subtle shifts in timing and patterns due to climate change, this year's warming temperatures provide a preview of the changes that may continue to unfold in the annual cherry blossom spectacle.
