Arab News Japan

TOKYO: While Tokyo has already said goodbye to its cherry blossoms for 2026, northern Japan is just starting to see the full blossoms.

Tokyo saw its first cherry blossoms on March 19, but it took another week for the flowers to reach a significant level of blooming.

But the northern island of Hokkaido is only just stepping into cherry blossom season, which could last until the first weeks of May.

The northernmost half of the island is not expected to see cherry blossoms until April 30, according to the Japan Meteorological Corporation, which provides information on the status of cherry blossoms around the country.

This is useful for foreign tourists, but cherry blossoms are delicate flowers that don’t always stick to the Japan Meteorological Corporation’s schedule.

Some tourists miss out on the blossoms, but the Japan Meteorological Corporation’s chart allows others with flexible schedules to chase the blossoms as they head north.

Japan is unique in having its mainstream media report on the status of cherry blossoms as they start to bloom and their progress towards the north.

Tour companies put on special trips for people to follow the cherry blossoms as they bloom. But the weather can dampen their enthusiasm as strong winds and rain can see the petals fall prematurely.

The blooming of the cherry blossoms is a harbinger of spring and there are plenty of other beautiful flowers to enjoy as summer approaches.