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Japan: Hay Fever Alert Issued as Mass Pollen Dispersal Expected to Peak Nationwide

As of February 16, the start of cedar pollen dispersal has been confirmed in parts of the region stretching from Kyushu to Tokai. By late February, dispersal is expected to begin across a wide area ranging from Kyushu to southern Tohoku. In Shizuoka Prefecture specifically, cedar pollen began dispersing in early February 2026; total volume is expected to reach 1.9 times the average of the past 10 years. Thick pollen is visible in the video, creating hazy conditions across the mountain range.

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Japan PM inspects tree felling work in Ibaraki

Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida (L) inspects tree felling work in a forest in Hitachiomiya, Ibaraki Prefecture, eastern Japan, on Oct. 7, 2023, as the government seeks to tackle hay fever by chopping down more cedar trees, which are a source of pollen. (Pool photo)

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Forestry Agency to modify cypress, cedar to stem pollen

TOKYO, Japan - A new variety of cypress, dubbed ''Soshun'' (brisk spring), is planted at a greenhouse at the Forest Tree Breeding Center in the city of Hitachi, Ibaraki Prefecture.

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Pollen dispersed from cedar

TOKYO, Japan - File photo taken in March 2005 shows pollen dispersed from a cedar in Sagamihara, Kanagawa Prefecture. (Kyodo)