The cherry blossom season is expected to arrive earlier than average in many parts of Japan, according to preliminary forecasts issued by a meteorological agency.
As of the latest forecast issued on Jan 23, the peak viewing period in Tokyo is expected to be from March 28 to April 4, a few days earlier than usual.
Most of Japan has been going through a very mild winter, with many ski resorts being forced to shut down because of the lack of snow.