JAPAN Forward 
(©JAPAN Forward by Shaun Fernando)
Although it's still chilly in many parts of Japan, the much-awaited first sakura forecast for 2025 is out. Issued by the Japan Meteorological Corporation, the forecast is based on observations of Somei Yoshino trees, the most common variety, known for their soft pink petals.
How Cherry Blossoms Bloom
Dormancy
Buds enter dormancy to survive the cold winter days by conserving energy. Dormancy continues until the buds are exposed to sufficiently low temperatures (-5°C to 15°C) for a specific duration. Once this condition is met, the buds begin preparing for spring.
Growth
After dormancy is broken, buds transition into the growth stage. Warmer temperatures in early spring accelerate this process. In this stage, the buds swell, their tips turn yellow-green, and petals become visible just before flowering.
Predicted Bloom and Full Bloom Dates
A warm October and November in 2024 may have delayed the dormancy-breaking phase. However, with above-average temperatures expected after the dormancy period, flower buds are likely to grow steadily.
As a result, estimates suggest that sakura season will generally start around the average time in most regions:
- Kochi: March 22, March 29
- Fukuoka: March 22, March 31
- Nagoya: March 24, April 3
- Tokyo: March 24, March 31
- Kyoto: March 27, April 4
- Kagoshima: March 22, April 2
- Sendai: April 7, April 13
- Sapporo: May 1, May 5
What the Dates Mean
The Japan Meteorological Corporation defines the "blooming date" as the first day when five or six flowers open on sample trees. The "full bloom date" refers to the day when approximately 80% of the buds on the trees have opened.
Watch for the next forecast update in February!
This article is based on the Japan Weather Corporation's forecast.
RELATED:
- Three Tokyo Sakura Spots You Can See in a Day
- Something about Spring Brings Out the Demons
- Beautiful Sakura Homecoming to Mark Emperor Showa's Taiwan Visit Centenary
Author: JAPAN Forward
