The Japanese capital's weather office has discovered at least five blossoms on the reference cherry tree. The sakura season is now considered open - 15 days later than last year.
All 47 Japanese prefectures have a reference tree. When it has a handful of open flowers, the season is considered open. The trees in Tokyo should be fully bloomed in about a week. The cherry blossom season - a peak of tourism - is eagerly awaited every year in Japan. The weather office in Tokyo had expected the first flowers ten days ago.