Tourists and locals are flocking to Japan's top locations to take photos and indulging in picnics under the elegant dark branches bursting with pink and white flowers.

According to AFP, the Japanese Meteorological Agency (JMA) on Sunday declared the country's most common and popular "somei yoshino" variety of cherry tree in full bloom in the Japanese city.

The flowers bloom during spring. In Tokyo, the season reaches its peak usually between late March and early April. 

Some of the most popular destinations for viewing cherry blossoms in the capital city of Japan are Yoyogi Park, Ueno Park and Chidorigafuchi, among others.

Cherry blossoms hold immense cultural significance in Japan. Hanami (flower viewing) is an important tradition in the country centred around enjoying the beauty of these flowers through gatherings, picnics, etc.

In popular culture, cherry blossoms are usually symbolic of new beginnings, but also the ephemeral nature of life.