The highly anticipated first forecast of Japan’s cherry blossom blooming dates was released last Friday (January 19)! Just like in the past,Japan Meteorological Corporationalways grabs the spotlight in January by being the first to announce the cherry blossom front schedule. Besides the cherry blossom front, we’re also here to tell you about the must-visit cherry blossom spots in Japan for 2018～
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source:?n-kishou
Compared to last year, this timecherry blossoms in Tokyo will bloom on March 18(last year it was March 22), followed by Nagoya (March 20), Fukuoka (March 20), Osaka (March 25), and then Sendai (April 9). The blossoms will arrive a bit earlier, so if you’re planning to catch the bloom, be sure to plan accordingly!?
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source:?t.1972@Instagram
Below, our editor has also handpicked3 must-visit cherry blossom spots in Tokyofor your reference～
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? Must-visit cherry blossom spots in Japan for 2018
? Tokyo – Yasukuni Shrine
source:?oshaberi-techo
Japan’s weathernews predicts that the cherry blossoms at Tokyo’s Yasukuni Shrine may be in full bloom by March 22.There is a specific cherry blossom tree within the shrine grounds used as the official blooming benchmark. When it blooms, it symbolizes the arrival of cherry blossom season～ With over 600 Somei Yoshino cherry trees in the Yasukuni Shrine grounds, the dreamycherry blossom snowfallis absolutely romantic?!
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? Tokyo – Chidorigafuchi
source:?nissan
Next,Chidorigafuchi is also one of Tokyo’s three most famous cherry blossom viewing spots, and the highlight is the view along the moat, where the blooming Somei Yoshino cherries are especially enchanting—especially in the evening when many couples come to admire thenight blossoms. If you’re looking for a once-in-a-lifetime cherry blossom experience, this is definitely the top choice！
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?Tokyo? Meguro River
source:?enjoytokyo
Lastly, there's the Meguro River — the editor’s favorite. As everyone knows, this is the famous filming location for the popular Japanese drama"The Best Divorce". Stroll along both sides of the Meguro River, and you’ll see the Yoshino cherry blossoms covering the entire sky above you, instantly transforming you into the star of a Japanese drama. (laughs) With its river and cherry blossoms, it’s no wonder this prime spot remains beloved by so many travelers.
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source:?t.1972@Instagram
With this year’s cherry blossom season starting earlier than usual, it’s lifting everyone’s mood just a little. For those getting ready to take time off and visit hanami spots for a healing trip, don’t forget tokeep an eye on and track any changes in the bloom schedule, so you can enjoy the stunning sight of fully bloomed cherry blossoms without missing out?
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