Overview
- JMA spotters declared the season on March 16 after inspections in the three cities confirmed qualifying blooms.
- Kochi logged the earliest start for a third straight year, six days ahead of average, while Gifu and Yamanashi were nine days early.
- A Kochi meteorological official pointed to low winter rainfall and longer sunshine as likely factors in the earlier timing.
- Cherry blossoms typically peak from late March to early April, aligning with Japan’s school and fiscal year transitions.
- Communities continue to address crowding concerns, with Fujiyoshida canceling its 2026 festival as experts urge visitors to seek quieter routes, arrive early, try nighttime illuminations, and consider river or northern-region viewing.