TOKYO: Tokyo’s cherry trees were in stunning full bloom yesterday, Japan’s weather agency said, marking the second earliest blossoming in the capital on record. The national weather service used Tokyo’s central Yasukuni Shrine as a barometer to judge the peak of the season, which sees a riot of white and delicate pinks exploding in parks, temple grounds, schools and on streets.
The spectacle signals the coming of spring and is marked by sometimes-raucous gatherings of friends, family or colleagues picnicking under the trees. Events can go on for many hours and often involve alcohol.
On Saturday, Japan’s weather agency, which has monitored cherry blossom since 1953, announced the official start of cherry blossom season in Tokyo.
Cherry trees reach full bloom in Tokyo
Cherry trees reach full bloom in Tokyo
