Tokyo's cherry blossom season has officially started after the official sample tree at Yasukuni Shrine opened at least five flowers.
According to The Japan Times, Tokyo's cherry blossom season officially began on March 19, 2026. The season starts when the official sample tree at Yasukuni Shrine opens at least five flowers. Yasukuni Shrine serves as the site for the official sample tree. Keywords include Yasukuni Shrine, SAKURA, TOKYO, and TOURISM. This marks the beginning of the tourism season.
Taiwan cherry blossoms are blooming early in the Kojirokuji area of Unzen, Nagasaki Prefecture, enhancing the scenery around former samurai residences. Some trees are half in bloom, while others are fully open, and the flowers can be viewed through early March. The district, with its black wooden fences and black-and-white walls, draws numerous tourists each year during February and March.
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Early-blooming Kawazu cherry blossoms are now at their peak at Ibaraki Flower Park in Ishioka, Ibaraki Prefecture, creating a sea of pink across the grounds. On Saturday, many visitors strolled along paths lined with the sakura trees. The peak viewing period for the 250 Kawazu trees is expected to last until early March, with someiyoshino and yamazakura varieties following in bloom from March.
More than 20,000 jacaranda trees are now in full bloom across Kunming in Yunnan province, creating a striking purple landscape. Jiaochang Middle Road stands out as the top viewing spot.
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Japan's Finance Ministry announced on Tuesday the issuance of 40,000 commemorative ¥1,000 silver coins to mark the centenary of the Showa era's start in 1926. The front features Shinkansen, Tokyo Tower and expressways symbolizing postwar reconstruction, while the back shows Mt. Fuji, cherry blossoms and doves. Each coin, 40 mm in diameter and weighing 31.1 grams, will sell for ¥34,800.
A memorial service for victims of the Great Tokyo Air Raid was held on March 10, marking 81 years since the 1945 attack that claimed about 100,000 lives. The ceremony took place at the Tokyo Metropolitan Memorial Hall in Sumida Ward, attended by Crown Prince Akishino, Crown Princess Kiko, Tokyo Governor Yuriko Koike, and bereaved family members. It commemorates the U.S. B-29 bombers' incendiary bombing in the pre-dawn hours of that day.
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Shanghai Disney Resort has launched its 10th anniversary festivities on March 20, 2026. The resort features glittering décor and new entertainment experiences. A highlight is a birthday-exclusive grand finale for the “Illuminate! A Nighttime Celebration.”