Though Tokyo marked its earliest Sakura blooming this past March 14 and other sections of the mainland, too are also getting a taste of spring, Aomori Prefecture up north is still in the throes of winter.

Aomori is home to Misawa Air Base and the entire region is expected to stay in winter temps until the end of April.

Yoshihito Morita of Misawa Commissary, however, just sent us the photos of tiny yellow blossoms taken recently around his home of Tohokucho Town, located near the air base.

The small yellow blossom is called “fukujuso” (Far East Amur adonis), which is known as the heralder of spring in Japan. Morita said he found the yellow Fukujuso blossoms along with another violet blossoms of crocus in his garden where snow piles are finally starting to melt.

Early this week, Misawa and surrounding cities will see a slight rise in temperature, but according to Morita, there is still snow on the ground from earlier in the month.

Fukujuso bloom in early spring and these unique blossoms open in the daytime and close when the sun sets at the end of the day.

“The blossoms are very small, but I see them cute and strong,” Morita said. “The shining yellow blossoms growing through piled snow are a reminder of nature’s vitality.”

Residents of the chilly region have many spring activities to look forward to including the cherry blossom festivals, blooming of tulips and narcissus blossoms, the reopening of the Hakkoda Goldline and the return of “Japan Day” at Misawa Air Base. “Japan Day” is a cultural exchange event hosted on base and will be held on April 8 this year.

Spring’s almost here, so stay safe and warm, Misawa!