Though we still have some wintry days ahead, you can start to look forward to spring and sakura season, as weather forecast company Weather Map released their 2014 sakura (cherry blossom) forecast last Friday, Jan. 24. The Japan-wide forecast predicts somei yoshino, the most popular type of cherry blossom in Japan, to begin blooming on Mar. 18 in Miyazaki City in Kyushu and Kochi City, in Shikoku – with full bloom for these cities on Mar. 27 and 25 respectively. Fukuoka City is predicted to be the second location in Kyushu for cherry blossom season to begin- with blooming starting around Mar. 20 and full bloom expected by Mar. 28. This year, most locations from Kyushu to Kanto region (as well as Hokuriku region), are expected to have relatively early dates for somei yoshino blooming, however the overall pace is slower than 2013 when many cities experienced record-breaking early blooming dates. The cherry blossom front begins on the Pacific side of Western Japan, gradually making its way up the country towards Northern Japan. Source: Nishinippon Shimbun Jan. 27. Official HP: http://sakura.weathermap.jp Get ready for ohanami – checkout Fukuoka Now’s guide to sakura and ohanami spots from 2013… and sure, we’ll be updating it for 2014
Cherry blossoms at Maizuru Park (source: Fukuoka Showcase)
