TOKYO (AP) — The Japan Meteorological Agency says Tokyo's celebrated cherry blossoms are officially in bloom.
The proclamation marks the start of the capital’s annual cherry blossom viewing season and is normally among the most anticipated announcements of the season. This year, the usual excitement has been overshadowed by the aftermath of the devastating earthquake and tsunami, as well as the ongoing nuclear crisis.
Japan designates certain trees for monitoring across the country, and considers a region to be in bloom when at least five or six flowers can be counted on its trees.
Tokyo’s official trees are located at Yasukuni Shrine. The entire capital is expected to be in full bloom in about a week.
