Cherry Blossoms in an Unexpected Season
February 23, 2026
“I want to see cherry blossoms!”
Many visitors to Japan share this dream. Seeing trees covered in soft pink blooms signals the arrival of spring.
For 2026, the latest forecast for cherry blossoms in Tokyo predicts we will see flowers from March 21 onward.
But not every tourist can visit Japan during the peak season. You might feel disappointed if your dates don't align.
Wait! It’s too early to give up on your blossom dreams. You still have a chance to find them at different times throughout Tokyo.
What if I told you...
“You can see cherry blossoms in Tokyo as early as January.”
Surprised? The next photo was taken at the beginning of January. No, it’s not AI-generated; I took it myself!
It’s true that the peak cherry blossom season in Tokyo is usually from late March to early April. According to the latest forecast issued on February 19th, the blossoms in Tokyo are expected to start blooming on March 21, 2026—but forecasts can change.
Still, no worries! Even if the peak timing shifts, you can enjoy various cherry blossoms in Tokyo from December all the way through late April.
But how?
Early & Late-Blooming Cherry Blossoms
How can you see cherry blossoms in different seasons? The answer is simple:
Not all cherry blossoms are the same!
When most people think of cherry blossoms, they picture Somei Yoshino, the most common variety in Japan. These bloom in late March and only last about 10 days before falling. While about 80% of Tokyo’s cherry trees are Somei Yoshino, there are many other varieties with different colors, shapes, and blooming schedules.
Here is a photo gallery of the main cherry blossom varieties and their peak seasons (photos by the author):
Here is a list of the varieties of the cherry blossoms.
- Jugatsu-zakura (Oct–Dec & Late Mar–Apr) – Small flowers that bloom twice a year.
- Kan-zakura (Late Feb–Mid Mar) – Deep pink flowers; one of the first to bloom.
- Kawazu-zakura (Late Feb–Early Mar) – Bright pink blossoms, famously celebrated in Kawazu.
- Okame-zakura (Mid Mar) – Deep pink, downward-facing flowers.
- Okan-zakura (Mid Mar) – Elegant blossoms with pale petals.
- Oshima-zakura (Late Mar–Early Apr) – White flowers that bloom alongside green leaves.
- Yama-zakura (Late Mar–Early Apr) – Beautiful wild white flowers.
- Shidare-zakura (Late Mar–Early Apr) – Cherry blossoms with elegant, drooping branches.
- Yaezakura (Mid Apr) – Multi-layered blossoms with thick, lush petals.
and many more!
Best Cherry Blossom Spots (Beyond Somei Yoshino!)
While Tokyo has many famous sakura spots, most focus on Somei Yoshino trees. If you want to see other varieties, check out these hidden gems:
- Yoyogi Park – A spacious city park featuring Kawazu-zakura for an early bloom.
- Nihonbashi – Home to beautiful Okame-zakura, perfect for photography.
- Kyobashi – One of the best places to see Jugatsu-zakura in full bloom.
- Azabudai – Near Azabudai Hills, you'll find vibrant Kawazu-zakura in early spring.
- Aoyama – A stylish district where you can spot a hidden Jugatsu-zakura tree.
- Toyosu Gururi Park – A waterfront park where you can enjoy Jugatsu-zakura with a scenic bay view.
- Hibiya Park – A relaxing city oasis with a diverse mix of sakura varieties.
- Shiba Park – Enjoy cherry blossoms with Tokyo Tower as your backdrop, including early-blooming Kan-zakura!
The most efficient way to find cherry blossoms?
While the season peaks in late March, there are plenty of opportunities to enjoy sakura before and after the main bloom. Knowing when and where to go makes all the difference.
By the way, have you heard of a Japanese sweet that goes with cherry blossom viewing? See the next article or join us for an unforgettable sakura cycling adventure now!
