Japan's Cherry Blossom Season Imminent
Cherry blossoms are predicted to begin blooming in Osaka and Kyoto in less than two weeks, with Starbucks Japan opening a new cafe and art gallery in Tokyo [https://timeout.com/osaka/news/japan-cherry-blossom-forecast-2026-osaka-and-kyoto-bloom-dates-121925, https://soranews24.com/2026/03/11/starbucks-japan-opens-new-cafe-and-art-gallery-in-top-tokyo-tourist-neighbourhood].
Osaka's cherry blossoms are expected to start blooming around March 25, 2026, while Kyoto's are predicted for March 26. Full bloom in both cities should occur a few days later, offering peak viewing opportunities. The new Starbucks in Tokyo's Taito district features a dedicated gallery space to showcase local artists. The cafe's design aims to blend into the historical neighborhood, providing a unique experience for tourists. Viewing cherry blossoms, or "sakura," is a popular activity in Japan, often involving picnics and gatherings under the trees. The relatively short blooming period makes the experience all the more special.
