Overview
- Officials confirmed the bloom after counting 61 open flowers on the designated sample tree at Yasukuni Shrine.
- The season is declared when at least five blossoms open on the official Somei Yoshino sample tree.
- This year's start arrived five days earlier than the March 24 average, the Japan Meteorological Agency said.
- The earliest recorded start date is March 14, documented in 2020, 2021, and 2023, according to JMA records.
- Spectators applauded the announcement at the shrine, with one attendee calling the season a source of hope during global turmoil.