Japan Just Had Its Earliest Peak Bloom of Cherry Blossoms in 1,200 Years. Is Climate Change to Blame?

An exceptionally warm spring has led to the early arrival of cherry blossoms in Japan, causing researchers to draw patterns between local temperature increases and global warming.

By Donna Sarkar
Apr 16, 2021 7:00 PM
cherry trees in Japan
(Credit: Sean Pavone/Shutterstock)

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Each year, the arrival of spring in Japan is accompanied by rows of breathtaking pink and white flowers. The cherry blossoms, also known as Sakura, have drawn countless tourists during its blooming season which typically lasts from mid-March to early May. Tokyo is packed with tourists during its peak bloom period in mid-March, while northern cities like Kyoto don’t witness the full bloom until April.

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