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4w ago

Cherry Blossoms Begin Blooming in Tokyo and Washington, D.C.

Tokyo's season starts five days earlier than last year, while Washington's blooms approach peak, reflecting climate-driven changes.

Image
Visitors walk in Tidal Basin as cherry trees begin to bloom, Friday, March 21, 2025 in Washington.
An aerial view of the Martin Luther King Jr. Memorial at the Tidal Basin is seen during high tide amid cherry blossoms in peak bloom on March 25, 2023 in Washington, D.C.

Overview

  • Tokyo's cherry blossom season officially began on March 24, 2025, as declared by the Japan Meteorological Agency, with blooms observed at Yasukuni Shrine.
  • Warmer-than-usual weather has led to Tokyo's season starting five days earlier than in 2024, highlighting climate change's impact on bloom timing.
  • In Washington, D.C., cherry blossoms reached Stage 5 ('Puffy White') on March 23, 2025, with peak bloom predicted between March 28 and 31 by the National Park Service.
  • Rising sea levels in Washington, D.C., have resulted in the removal of over 150 cherry trees near the Tidal Basin, threatening the iconic blooms' future.
  • The cherry blossom festivals in both cities continue to draw millions of visitors annually, celebrating cultural heritage and environmental awareness.