Cherry blossom season will arrive early this year, but there’s still time to book your trip to witness the surreal beauty of the annual event.

According to a forecast by Japan Meteorological Corp., the nation’s iconic trees will begin flowering March 20 in Tokyo, Kochi and Kagoshima, six days earlier than usual, and will reach full bloom eight days later.

Cherry blossoms are predicted to start to flower March 21 in Fukuoka; March 22 in Nagoya and Nagasaki; March 26 in Osaka; March 27 in Kyoto; and April 10 in Sendai.

The annual natural affair, welcoming the spring season, is fleeting, often lasting only a couple weeks or so, but it’s worth a trip.

If you’re fortunate enough to be in Japan when it occurs, one of the best ways to witness the colorful blooms is by partaking in hanami, or “flower viewing,” when hoards of visitors and locals head to local parks, gardens and river banks, often with picnic food and drinks, to relax and take in the bounties of the new season.

There are several other great events, festivals and local offerings throughout Japan in honor of cherry blossom (sakura) season.

Shiba Park Hotel in Tokyo will hold special events on weekdays March 28–April 5, including informative guided walks and visits to historic landmarks like Zojoji Temple. Kawazu Sakura Festival boasts viewing opportunities as well as themed food, drink and shopping stalls.

While you’re visiting, stop in Starbucks for limited-time Sakura Strawberry drinks and snacks, like the Strawberry Pink Mochi Frappuccino.