Asia Travel: Timing Your Trip to Cherry Blossom Season in Japan

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Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing season, is a special time of year in Japan. Time your trip to partake in the festivities.

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When do the trees bloom?

Every year Japan’s Meteorological Corporation releases its schedule for first blooms across the country. Note the difference between first bloom and full bloom. 

Hanami runs from mid-March to early April (with a few cities that see blossom in late April, early May). 

The timing of the bloom depends on the geographic location. If the weather is mild, the trees will bloom earlier. If the weather is colder, the trees will bloom later. 

View the 2020 Calendar: https://n-kishou.com/corp/news-contents/sakura/?lang=en

Japanese words to describe cherry blossoms

• Hanami – cherry blossom viewing season
• Sakura – cherry blossom
• Kaika – first blossom
• Mankai – full bloom
• Hanafubuki – a blizzard of falling petals

How long do the cherry blossoms last?

First bloom to full bloom is typically reached within a week. This small window of time is why Japanese and tourists alike get excited for this time of year.