Hanami Cherry Blossom Guide for Foreigners in Japan (2025)
Hanami (花見) — literally “flower viewing” — is the Japanese tradition of gathering under blooming cherry trees to eat, drink, and celebrate spring. It’s one of the most joyful cultural traditions in Japan, and completely open to everyone. When Is Cherry Blossom Season? Cherry blossom timing varies by year and location. The Japan Meteorological Corporation releases an annual sakura forecast in January. Approximate timing by region: Region Typical Full Bloom Okinawa Late January–February Kyushu (Fukuoka) Late March Tokyo / Kanto Late March–Early April Osaka / Kyoto Late March–Early April Nagoya Late March–Early April Sendai / Tohoku Mid April Sapporo / Hokkaido Late April–Early May Bloom lasts only about 1–2 weeks. The peak (mankai, 満開) is fleeting — watch forecasts and act quickly. ...