Cherry blossom forecast 2026 updates are here! The Japan Meteorological Corporation released their 3rd cherry blossom forecast on January 22nd, providing bloom and full bloom predictions for approximately 1,000 locations across Japan. According to the latest cherry blossom forecast, this year’s blooms will arrive earlier than usual in northern and eastern Japan, while western Japan will see typical bloom dates. The season is expected to begin on March 21st in Nagoya and Kochi, followed by Tokyo around March 22nd. The next forecast update is scheduled for February 5th. We’ll continue updating this page throughout the season to help you plan the perfect cherry blossom viewing trip in 2026.
Source: Japan Meteorological Corporation
Table of Contents
Chapter 1: Cherry Blossom Forecast 2026 Regional Trends
The 2026 cherry blossom forecast reveals distinct blooming patterns across Japan’s three main regions. Understanding these regional cherry blossom forecast trends will help you choose the best time and location for your hanami experience.
Northern Japan (Hokkaido & Tohoku)
Cherry blossom forecast 2026 for northern Japan predicts earlier-than-usual blooms.
Temperature Trends:
- October-November: Average temperatures
- December: Warmer than usual
- January: Cooler than average (forecast)
- February: Average temperatures (forecast)
- March-April: Warmer than usual (forecast)
- Bloom Prediction: Earlier than usual due to warm spring temperatures accelerating cherry blossom development.
Eastern Japan (Kanto, Koshinetsu & Tokai)
The cherry blossom forecast for eastern Japan, including Tokyo, shows blooms arriving on schedule or slightly early.
Temperature Trends:
- October: Above-average temperatures
- November: Average temperatures
- December: Warmer than usual – January-February: Average temperatures (forecast)
- March: Warmer than usual (forecast)
- Bloom Prediction: Around typical dates or a few days earlier than usual.
Western Japan (Kansai, Chugoku, Shikoku & Kyushu)
Western Japan’s cherry blossom forecast 2026 indicates typical bloom timing despite fluctuating temperatures.
Temperature Trends:
- October: Significantly warmer than average
- November: Average temperatures
- December: Above-average temperatures
- January-February: Cooler than usual (forecast)
- March: Significantly warmer than usual (forecast)
- Bloom Prediction: Around usual dates.
The dormancy-breaking period may be slightly delayed, and February’s cooler weather will slow initial growth. However, warm March temperatures will help cherry blossoms catch up.
Chapter 2: Blooming and Full Bloom Forecast for Major Cities
Please refer to the blooming forecast for major cities below.
| Area | Expected Bloom Date | Expected Full Bloom Date |
|---|---|---|
|
Sapporo |
April 26th |
April 30th |
|
Aomori |
April 18th |
April 22nd |
|
Sendai |
April 6th |
April 11th |
|
Tokyo |
March 22nd |
March 29th |
|
Kanazawa |
April 2nd |
April 8th |
|
Nagano |
April 7th |
April 11th |
|
Nagoya |
March 21st |
March 30th |
|
Kyoto |
March 25th |
April 2nd |
|
Osaka |
March 25th |
April 1st |
|
Wakayama |
March 28th |
April 4th |
|
Hiroshima |
March 22nd |
April 1st |
|
Kōchi |
March 21st |
March 28th |
|
Fukuoka |
March 22nd |
March 30th |
|
Kagoshima |
March 26th |
April 6th |
Ready to Experience Hanami? Now that you know the cherry blossom forecast 2026, learn how to make the most of your hanami experience. Our detailed guide covers traditional customs, essential picnic items, and tips for enjoying both daytime and nighttime cherry blossom viewing. Discover what to bring, where to sit, and how to experience this beloved Japanese tradition like a local.
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