Mon Mar 24 05:50:00 UTC 2025: ## Tokyo Cherry Blossoms Bloom Early, Signaling Start of Hanami Season

**Tokyo, March 24, 2025** – The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) officially announced the blooming of cherry blossoms (Somei Yoshino) in Tokyo today, five days earlier than last year but in line with the average. Over 200 onlookers, including media and local residents, gathered at Yasukuni Shrine in Chiyoda Ward to witness the announcement, made after the designated sample tree showed at least five or six blossoms.

The early bloom signals the imminent start of the hanami (cherry blossom viewing) season. Weather forecasts predict a rapid temperature increase, leading to an expected full bloom (80% blooming) as early as March 27th, according to Weathermap. Yasukuni Shrine boasts approximately 500 cherry trees, and the nearby Chidorigafuchi area, known for its stunning cherry blossom displays, will be illuminated nightly from March 28th to April 8th (6:30 PM – 10:00 PM), with extended operating hours for the Chidorigafuchi boat rentals during this period. The “Chiyoda Sakura Matsuri” cherry blossom festival continues until April 23rd.

(Note: The unrelated news snippets about the traffic accident, fraud arrest, and tunnel completion have been omitted from this cherry blossom news article.)

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