Last Updated:February 05, 2026, 17:30 IST
The Japanese authorities recently announced that it has cancelled Mount Fuji Cherry Blossom festival.
The authorities in a statement said that serious problems like traffic congestion, harassment against locals and hygiene issues have become commonplace, prompting the municipal government to choose to call off the sakura festival in 2026. (Image: X)
They said that as the weak yen and explosive popularity driven by social media led to the number of foreign tourists visiting Japan increase dramatically, far beyond expectation. (Image: X)
The situation worsens in spring’s cherry blossom season, as crowds of more than 10,000 daily flood in to capture iconic shots of snow capped Fuji with the Chureito Pagoda. (Image: X)
Its mass popularity has also sparked unwanted behaviour and overtourism, which city officials say has seriously disrupted the daily lives of local residents. The city government cited examples such as tourists leaving cigarette butts on private property, trespassing into homes to use toilets, defecating in private gardens, and causing disturbances when confronted. (Image: X)
Furthermore, the heavy pedestrian crowds near schools have even pushed some children off the pavements, prompting parents to voice serious concerns about their safety. (Image: X)
The Fujiyoshida city government said locals questioned holding the cherry blossom festival because it burdened residents, leading officials to choose community well being over tourism promotion. (Image: X)
The “Arakuraya Sengen Park Cherry Blossom Festival” name will be wiped off official tourism websites, said the city government. As tourists are still expected to descend upon the city during the sakura season, safety measures including security guards and portable restrooms will be deployed. (Image: X)
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AloJapan.com