In many regions of both western and eastern Japan, the cherry blossoms have bloomed later than usual this year. Consequently, the peak viewing period is the latest in the past 10 years, with a significant difference compared to last year, which saw record early blooms. It’s reported that there’s about a two-week gap in bloom times across various locations. Even in nearby parks, the tulips have already passed their peak and are shedding petals, but the cherry blossoms are still in full bloom. Among the foreign visitors who came to see the cherry blossoms, some lamented having to extend their stay due to mistimed schedules. Nevertheless, this year’s cherry blossoms are exceptionally beautiful. While there may be personal anticipation, the whole of Japan has been eagerly awaiting them. This sentiment is reflected in the media coverage, which daily showcases cherry blossom viewing scenes from across Japan and reports on the increased number of foreign visitors enjoying hanami. Despite starting the year with the Noto Peninsula earthquake, April has provided the perfect setting for the beginning of the fiscal year. Japan, still grappling with the full recovery from the Tohoku earthquake and the Kumamoto earthquake, has now added the recovery from the Noto Peninsula earthquake. Yet, this year’s cherry blossoms serve as a symbol of courage for Japan, uplifting spirits in the face of such challenges.

今年は西日本や東日本の多くの地域で平年よりも桜の開花が遅くなり、その分、見頃の時期をみても今年は過去10年で最も遅くなっていて、開花が記録的に早かった昨年との差が大きく、各地で半月ほどの差となったそうです。近くの公園でも、チューリップが満開を通り過ぎて、花びらを落としそうになっていますが、まだサクラが満開です。桜を求めてやってきた訪日外国人の中にも、タイミングが狂い滞在期間を延長せざるを得ないと嘆いている人がいました。それにしても今年のサクラは一段と美しい。個人的に待ち焦がれていたという性もあるでしょうが、日本全体が待ち焦がれていたんです。マスコミの取り上げ方がそれを象徴しています。連日日本各地の花見風景を取り上げていますし、急増した外国人花見客の様子を伝えています。能登半島地震で年が明けた今年ですが、４月の年度始めとしては最高のお膳立てです。東北大震災、熊本地震の完全復興もないまま、能登半島地震の復興をしょい込んだ日本ですが、今年のサクラはそんな日本を勇気立ててくれるサクラです。