Every year, nature unveils one of its most enchanting spectacles — the blooming of cherry blossoms, known as sakura in Japanese. These delicate flowers, with their ethereal beauty and fleeting presence, have always drawn people from around the world to witness their breathtaking display. With great anticipation, the 2024 sakura forecast recently presented its seventh update from the Japan Meteorological Corporation, providing the ideal timing for this year's hanami excursions.
The release of the 2024 Cherry Blossom Forecast marks the beginning of an annual tradition—tracking the arrival of these magnificent blossoms. From the provided information, the cherry blossoms are expected to begin blooming on March 23 and reach their peak bloom by March 30 in Tokyo.
For other places, starting from one of the popular spots in South Japan, Cherry blossoms in Fukuoka are expected to begin blooming on March 21 and reach their peak bloom by March 30.
Go North, the cherry blossoms in the Keihanshin area (Kyoto, Osaka and Nagoya) are anticipated to start flowering from March 23 and reach their peak bloom by April 2.
For Sendai, the cherry blossoms are expected to begin blooming on April 3 and reach their peak bloom by April 9.
For Sapporo, the cherry blossoms are expected to begin blooming on May 1 and reach their peak bloom by May 4. ( Additional places can be find in the picture )
Let’s mark your calendars, prepare your cameras, and get ready to witness the beauty of cherry blossoms in 2024!
Some perfect cherry blossom spots :
Tokyo - Chidori-ga-fuchi Moat
It is located alongside the Imperial Palace in Tokyo, offers a picturesque 700-metre-long pathway lined with vibrant greenery. During late March and early April, visitors can plan their visit to Chidori-ga-fuchi Moat for a captivating experience of the view of cherry blossoms.
Tokyo - Ueno Sakura Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival) [ 16/3 - 7/4 ]
Ueno Park is renowned throughout Japan for its iconic avenue of cherry blossom trees that line the main pathway. Celebrated for blossom viewing, the park illuminates its pathway with 800 lanterns during the festival. Originally temple grounds, the park now attracts countless visitors to witness the beauty of 800 blooming Somei-yoshino cherry trees and enjoy events like the Aozora Antique Market.
Osaka - Kema Sakuranomiya Park
Okawa River boasts an impressive display of beauty with its nearly 5000 cherry trees lining its banks for several kilometres. Visitors can take in the view of the rows of cherry trees from a charming riverside promenade or while cruising on river ships. The park also offers spacious areas for picnics and relaxation.
Osaka - Osaka Castle
Osaka Castle's expansive grounds are adorned with more than 4000 cherry trees. Moreover, with its wide lawns and picturesque views of the castle tower, it is an ideal spot for picnic and enjoying the cherry blossom.
Fukuoka - Uminonakamichi Seaside Park
It is located on a long and narrow peninsula north of the city centre, with approximately 2000 cherry trees across its expansive grounds. Due to the park's size, it is recommended to rent bicycles (priced at 500 yen for three hours) for convenient transportation within the park.
Nagoya - Yamazakigawa Riverside
Designated as one of Japan's top 100 cherry blossom spots, the Shikinomichi ("Path of Four Seasons,") runs along Nagoya's Yamazaki River. This scenic pathway stretches nearly a kilometre with hundreds of cherry trees, offering a beautiful view during the cherry blossom season.
Sendai - Tsutsujigaoka Park
Situated in central Sendai, Tsutsujigaoka Park is a public park conveniently located just one stop east of Sendai Station. The park features a variety of Somei Yoshino and weeping cherry trees, planted along its paved pathways.
Sapporo - Maruyama Park and Hokkaido Shrine
In Sapporo, the park and shrine stand side by side, drawing large crowds for hanami parties. The path leading to the shrine is lined with numerous cherry trees, creating a picturesque scene. Within the park, visitors can find some open space to spread out mats, enjoy food and drinks, and celebrate under the blooming flowers in the company of friends.
