<h1>2026 Cherry Blossom Forecast in Japan</h1><img src="https://s3.ap-northeast-1.amazonaws.com/files.jpneazy.com/media/sakura4_85959efab4.webp" alt="sakura4.webp"><h2>Sakura Bloom Predictions &amp; Best Time to Visit</h2>Japan’s cherry blossom season is one of the most anticipated times of the year. According to the Second Cherry Blossom Forecast for 2026, announced by Weathernews on January 28, 2026, cherry blossoms (Somei Yoshino) are expected to bloom around average or slightly earlier than usual across much of the country, with earlier-than-average blooming in northern Japan.*Further insights into the culture and traditions behind cherry blossoms and hanami in Japan can be found below. <a href="https://jpneazy.com/jp/feature/sakura-cherry-blossom">Sakura Through Foreign Eyes: Unveiling the Enchanting Beauty of Japan’s Spring Traditions</a><h2>Key Points of the 2026 Cherry Blossom Forecast</h2><ul><li>Blooming is expected to begin on March 21 in Tokyo and Fukuoka</li><li>Western and Eastern Japan: around average or slightly earlier than usual</li><li>Northern Japan: earlier or significantly earlier than average</li></ul><h2>Overview of the 2026 Sakura Bloom</h2>The cherry blossom season in 2026 is expected to start on March 21, with the first blooms appearing in Nagoya and Fukuoka. From March 22 onward,, blooming is forecast to begin in several major cities, including, Tokyo, Ehime, Hiroshima, Osaka, Kyoto. From late March, cherry blossoms are expected to open successively across Western and Eastern Japan. In early April, blooming is forecast to begin in southern Tohoku, followed by the arrival of the cherry blossom front in Hokkaido in late April. Blooming will then continue into early May in northern and eastern parts of Hokkaido.<h2>Regional Blooming Trends for 2026</h2><ul><li>Western &amp; Eastern Japan: around average to slightly earlier than usual</li><li>Northern Japan: earlier than average</li><li>The cherry blossom front is expected to move steadily from south to north, as in a typical year</li></ul><h2>Forecasted Bloom Dates at Famous Cherry Blossom Spots</h2>Based on the forecast data from major weather information providers, cherry blossoms are expected to bloom in the following periods across Japan. As forecasts are updated, differences between predictions are expected to narrow, leading to more accurate information.(Updated January 28, 2026)<ul><li><a href="https://jpneazy.com/area/fukuoka/cuisine/all">Fukuoka</a>: March 21</li><li><a href="https://jpneazy.com/area/aichi/cuisine/all">Aichi</a>: March 21</li><li><a href="https://jpneazy.com/area/tokyo/cuisine/all">Tokyo</a>: March 22</li><li><a href="https://jpneazy.com/area/ehime/cuisine/all">Ehime</a>: March 22</li><li><a href="https://jpneazy.com/area/hiroshima/cuisine/all">Hiroshima</a>: March 23</li><li><a href="https://jpneazy.com/area/osaka/cuisine/all">Osaka</a>: March 25</li><li><a href="https://jpneazy.com/area/kyoto/cuisine/all">Kyoto</a>: March 27</li><li>Miyagi: April 5</li><li><a href="https://jpneazy.com/area/hokkaido/cuisine/all">Hokkaido</a>: April 23</li></ul>Full bloom is generally expected 5 days to 2 weeks after first bloom, depending on weather conditions.<img src="https://s3.ap-northeast-1.amazonaws.com/files.jpneazy.com/media/cherry_blossom_general_ba3f9cbb2c.jpg" alt="cherry blossom-general.jpg"><h2>Planning Your Cherry Blossom Trip to Japan in 2026</h2>Cherry blossoms typically remain in bloom for a short period, with full bloom lasting about one week in many areas. Planning travel dates according to regional bloom forecasts is essential for visitors hoping to experience "hanami*", Japan’s traditional cherry blossom viewing culture. For travelers seeking flexibility, northern regions such as Tohoku and Hokkaido offer a longer overall viewing season, extending into late April and early May.*Hanami is a Japanese tradition of enjoying cherry blossoms in spring, often by having picnics under the trees.<h2>Enjoy Cherry Blossom Season Dining Across Japan with JPNEAZY</h2>Cherry blossom season is one of the busiest times to travel in Japan, and restaurant reservations can be difficult to secure in many popular destinations. JPNEAZY helps you arrange dining plans smoothly by offering access to pre-reserved tables at selected restaurants across Japan, even during peak hanami season.&nbsp;

The article provides an overview of Japan’s 2026 cherry blossom season, including nationwide forecasts for bloom dates. It also explores the cultural significance of sakura in Japan, highlighting traditional hanami (flower-viewing) practices and the seasonal enjoyment of cherry blossoms across the country.

2026 Cherry Blossom Forecast

Tempura Kondo てんぷら 近藤

Tempura Kondo, a two-Michelin-star restaurant in Ginza, Tokyo, is renowned for elevating Edomae tempura with innovative techniques and seasonal ingredients. The restaurant transforms vegetables and seafood into delicate, visually striking tempura, such as three-dimensional carrot creations, Hokkaido oysters, and slow-cooked sweet potato slices, highlighting their natural flavors and textures. Guests enjoy a refined dining experience at a polished white wood counter, observing the meticulous preparation of each dish in an elegant and tranquil setting. With careful ingredient selection and artistic presentation, Tempura Kondo offers a luxurious and unforgettable tempura experience.

Sushisho Masa すし匠まさ

Sushisho Masa, located in Tokyo’s Roppongi district, offers an exclusive omakase sushi experience at a seven-seat counter. Every dish is carefully crafted to highlight the finest seasonal ingredients, from delicate nigiri to unique daily creations, ensuring a memorable dining journey. Guests can enjoy the artistry of sushi preparation in an elegant yet cozy setting, observing precise techniques up close. The restaurant emphasizes refined flavors, meticulous ingredient selection, and personalized service, creating a serene and luxurious atmosphere where each guest can savor authentic sushi and accompanying dishes paired with fine sake.

Sushiroku 鮨ろく

Sushiroku, a renowned sushi restaurant in Osaka, offers a high-level Edomae sushi experience blending Edo-style tradition with Kansai influences. The daily omakase features fresh ingredients personally sourced from Osaka markets, with premium tuna procured through exclusive Toyosu Market sources. Unique techniques include persimmon leaf-wrapped sushi and dual vinegar rice varieties, enhancing depth and flavor. The restaurant’s intimate private rooms and inviting atmosphere allow guests to observe meticulous sushi preparation while enjoying approachable, refined hospitality. With over 35 years of history, Sushiroku emphasizes precision, quality, and creativity, delivering a memorable and elegant dining experience for sushi enthusiasts.

Nishiazabu Shirukuya 西麻布しるく屋

Nishiazabu Shirukuya, located in Tokyo’s Nishiazabu, offers an intimate and serene teppanyaki experience, featuring meticulously selected ingredients from Awaji Island, including the rare Awaji Wagyu—a miraculous beef with the exact same pure Tajima DNA as Kobe Beef, yet offered at local Awaji prices. Guests enjoy seasonal course menus highlighting Awaji beef, seafood, and vegetables, prepared with delicate, innovative techniques that enhance natural flavors. The chic interior allows diners to observe skilled teppanyaki craftsmanship up close. Complemented by thoughtfully paired sake, shochu, and champagne, Shirukuya delivers a refined yet relaxed dining experience celebrating the heritage and exceptional quality of Awaji Island produce.

Tempura Ginza Onodera Higashi Ginza Store 天ぷら 銀座おのでら 東銀座店

Tempura Ginza Onodera in Higashi Ginza, Tokyo, offers an intimate counter-only dining experience, refining tempura into an exquisite culinary art using seasonal ingredients sourced across Japan and fried in 100% premium Taihaku sesame oil. The chef’s omakase course highlights delicate, one-bite pieces, including specialties like Kegani crab tempura, emphasizing both tradition and innovation. Guests enjoy exclusive Champagne pairings and house-blended salts, enhancing each dish. With meticulous ingredient selection, precise techniques, and front-row views of tempura craftsmanship, Tempura Ginza Onodera delivers a refined, immersive culinary journey celebrating Japanese seasonal flavors.

Akai 閼伽井

Akai offers an intimate and private kaiseki dining experience in Kyoto, celebrating the essence of seasonal Japanese ingredients. The cuisine honors traditional Kyoto Kaiseki while subtly incorporating Western ingredients, emphasizing the natural flavors of each component. Signature dishes, such as the Hassun appetizer, showcase layered flavors and creative presentation. Each course is crafted with peak-season ingredients, with a full kaiseki menu typically featuring around twelve meticulously prepared dishes. Guests can enjoy delicate, sophisticated cuisine in a serene and elegant setting, where every detail reflects the harmony of tradition, seasonality, and refined culinary artistry.