Long Waiting...

The Cherry Blossom Frontline
Spring is still far away, especially for those doomed with heavy snow.
Tokyo residents at least need to wait just a little longer than usual for spring to show up. The Japan Meteorological Agency (JMA) announced its first forecast of the flowering dates of cherry blossoms today. The flowering is expected to be starting at the usual rate or at some points rather late than usual in Easten and Western Japan. Due to the slightly lower temperatures in recent months, SAKURA or the cherry blossoms will need a little more time to wake up.
In Tokyo (to be exact, at the Yasukuni Shirine in Chiyoda Ward), the cherry blossoms are expected to bloom March 30th which is two days later than usual, and March 29th in Osaka a day earlier than usual. The familiar "SAKURA ZENSEN" (literally "the cherry blossom frontline") above is an important map for travel plans.
Where shall I see beautiful SAKURA this year? At least there's something to look forward to after a very busy month!