Japan has officially welcomed its cherished cherry blossom season, with government spotters announcing the first blooms in three cities on Monday. The declaration, made by officials from the Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA), signifies the eagerly anticipated start of the country's most celebrated floral display.
JMA experts meticulously inspected benchmark Somei Yoshino cherry trees in Kochi, located in the southwest, and Gifu and Yamanashi in central Japan. The official announcement requires the presence of more than five flowers on each designated tree.
Kochi recorded the earliest bloom for the third consecutive year, appearing six days ahead of the average schedule. Gifu and Yamanashi followed suit, with their blossoms emerging nine days earlier than usual. Shinobu Imoto of the Kochi Meteorological Agency suggested to TBS television that "low rainfall during the winter and longer hours of sunshine might have helped the early blooming."
Cherry blossoms, or “sakura,” usually reach their peak in late March to early April, as the country celebrates the start of a new school and business year. Many Japanese enjoy walking or picnicking under the trees.
In recent years, communities near cherry blossom viewing venues have complained about littering, noise and other issues linked to overtourism.
Sakura have deeply influenced Japanese culture for centuries.
