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When Will Cherry Blossoms Bloom in Japan? The 2026 Sakura Forecast You'll Want to Bookmark (Updated: Jan 22)

Spring

Updated on January 22, this guide breaks down Japan’s 2026 cherry blossom forecast, with predicted bloom timing by region and practical tips on where to catch the season’s most beautiful views of the Somei Yoshino variety. Whether you’re planning well in advance or fine-tuning your itinerary closer to departure, this forecast helps you make the most of sakura season in Japan.

Visiting Japan in November: The Best Things to Do and Reasons to Visit

Autumn
[Extended Offer!](12% OFF KKday Coupon) Mt. Fuji Autumn Leaves, Powder Snow & More! 15 Best Tours to Experience Japan in Fall & Winter

Autumn
5 Popular Sapporo Jingisukan Restaurants: Introducing Hokkaido's Specialty Worth Waiting in Line For

Sapporo / Chitose Yakiniku
Tokyo's Top Electronics Stores: Find Your Perfect Shop by Purpose & Style (Major Retailers, Gaming, Cameras & More)

Akihabara Electronics Stores
Shop Like a Local: 8 Must-Visit Cosmetics & Drugstores in Tokyo

Shibuya Department Stores
Tokyo Sweets Souvenir Guide: 8 Popular Stores to Find Luxury, Made-in-Japan, and Classic Treats

Tokyo Station Department Stores

February Events in Kansai: Fun Festivals, Food, and Things to Do in Kyoto & Osaka

USJ, Nanko Port Winter

February is here and the events calendar is back in full swing! There are a plethora of events for those traveling to Kansai, from theme parks to temple ceremonies — no matter your interest, there’s something for you (and your friends, family). Some highlights from February around Kansai: Universal Studios Japan (USJ)’s popular Detective Conan event returns, traditional Japanese celebrations abound with setsubun at temples and shrines and sparkling illuminations (perfect for Valentines!) light up Kobe. We also have some exclusive offers for Live Japan readers, so be sure to check the ticket link when planning. (Main Photo: HARRY POTTER and all related characters and elements (C) & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. Publishing Rights (C) J.K. Rowling. / MINIONS TM & (C) 2025 Universal Studios. / (C) Nintendo / TM & © Universal Studios & Amblin Entertainment / 書・紫舟 / 原作／青山剛昌｢名探偵コナン｣(小学館｢週刊少年サンデー｣連載中) / (C) 2026 青山剛昌／名探偵コナン製作委員会 / (C) SCRAP All Rights Reserved. / Universal elements and all related indicia TM & (C) 2025 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. (We may earn from affiliate links or coupons in this article; featured facilities and experiences meet our editorial standards.)

Osaka Countdown Events 2025-2026: 10 Best Places in Osaka Where You Can Spend a Special New Year's Eve

Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi Other Entertainment
December Events in Kansai: Fun Festivals, Food, and Things to Do in Kyoto & Osaka

USJ, Nanko Port Winter
Best Things to Do and See Around Kyoto & Osaka in September: Events and Festivals in Kansai

USJ, Nanko Port Autumn
Fun Things to Do in Osaka & Kyoto in July: Enjoy Summer with Festivals, Fireworks & More

Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi Summer
Fun Summer Festivals and Events in Hokkaido (June/July/August 2025)

Sapporo / Chitose Summer
2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo: Convenient Tips for a Stress-Free Visit

USJ, Nanko Port Other Entertainment

Become a True Gundam Pilot - Stepping into the P.O.D. at a Tokyo Arcade! (Video)

Arcades

Japan and robots go together like a hotdog and mustard. One of the nation’s most famous robot exports is known worldwide simply as “Gundam.” What started out as an anime has become a huge franchise with its own games, movies, and even a life-sized statue in Tokyo’s Odaiba. What many people don’t know, however, is that there is a way to pilot your very own Gundam robot!

Learn the Art of Flower Arrangement at Ohara School of Ikebana

Harajuku Other Traditional Arts
Purikura: Change Yourself Up with Photo Booth Fun!

Arcades
[MOVIE] DRUM TAO’S MANGEKYO – a Kaleidoscope of Taiko Drums

Shinagawa Shows
[MOVIE] Achieve Your Cosplay Dreams at Cosplay Studio Crown!

Akihabara Culture Experience
Stringraphy at Studio EVE: A Striking and Unique Musical Experience

Shibuya Other Contemporary Arts
[MOVIE] A Japanese Drum Experience at TAIKO-LAB

Shibuya Other Sightseeing

Shinagawa Aquarium: A Must-Visit Spot in Tokyo for Families and Sea Life Fans (Tickets, Tips & Souvenirs)

Shinagawa Other Sightseeing

Shinagawa Aquarium is one of Tokyo’s most family-friendly spots, known for its close-up marine life encounters and laid-back atmosphere. Set inside Shinagawa Ward Residents' Park, the aquarium features dolphin and sea lion performances, seal and otter feeding sessions, and plenty of interactive exhibits. Its convenient location near Haneda Airport also makes it an ideal stop for travelers with limited time in the city. In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know: admission fees, access tips, and souvenir shopping. (This article may contain promotions)

Expert-Recommended: 9 Hakodate Hotels Serving Up the Best Breakfasts in Town

Hakodate Hotels
Tips & Advice for Planning a Trip to Tokyo in Autumn

Tokyo Station Autumn
Up to 66% Off! Buy Your 2024-25 Japan Ski Resort Lift Tickets in Advance & Save

Niseko / Rusutsu Skiing & Snowboarding
Professional Photos Even Beginners Can Shoot! 10 Tips for Taking Stunning Cherry Blossom Photos

Spring
Ryuuu TV's Unseen Adventure: Tokyo Skytree®'s Hidden Gems & Latest Foodie Finds in Asakusa & Oshiage!

Ryogoku / TOKYO SKYTREE(R) Downtown
19 Best Things to Do in Kobe: Attractions, Fun Tours & More

Kobe, Sannomiya, Kitano Downtown

Glamping Near Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi: A Stay at Hoshifull Dome Fuji

Mt. Fuji Unique Hotels

Glamping combines the fun of camping with the comfort of a hotel stay, and has been growing in popularity across Japan. And while new sites have been popping up all over the country, Live Japan’s top pick is glamping near Mt. Fuji and Lake Kawaguchi! Here’s a closer look at what makes it so great. This page contains promotional content.

9 Reasons to Visit Tokyo in Spring: Festivals, Cherry Blossoms & More

Tokyo's Surrounding Areas Spring
Kansai Cherry Blossoms Guide: 8 Gorgeous Places To See Sakura in Osaka, Kyoto and Nara (2025)

Umeda, Osaka Station, Kitashinchi Spring
Step Back in Time: Exploring Sekijuku, Kansai's Edo-Era Post Town

Suzuka, Yokkaichi Old Towns (Shitamachi)
Three Must-try Hoto Shops in Kawaguchiko! Savor the Best of Mount Fuji

Mt. Fuji Other Japanese Food
Touch the Sky: Enjoy Seasonal Escapes on the Asahidake Ropeway (Hokkaido)

Asahikawa Forests & Mountains
Step into History at the Ofune World Heritage Site: Explore Hokkaido's Jomon Culture

Hakodate Cultural Heritage Sites

Visiting Kyoto During Cherry Blossom Season in 2026: Complete Guide & Viewing Tips

Kyoto Station, To-ji Temple Spring

Kyoto is one of the best places to experience the cherry blossom season in Japan, where the city's rich history and culture provide a backdrop for the beautiful and fleeting flowers. For centuries, cherry blossoms have been a symbol of Japan, appearing in everything from ancient paintings to modern anime series. This transient beauty is celebrated in Japanese poetry, emphasizing the importance of enjoying life in the moment. With their breathtaking display, it's no wonder that viewing the cherry blossoms in Kyoto is a popular item on many travelers' bucket lists. The old capital is steeped in history and culture, which makes it a perfect place to hunt down a quiet temple to enjoy nature or have a lively party under the cherry blossoms. To make the most of your trip, here’s all about when, where, and how you can enjoy cherry blossom season in Kyoto.