Cherry blossom festivals are to be held across Japan in the coming weeks as the flowers begin to bloom. But some municipalities are canceling the events because of overtourism.
Arakurayama Sengen Park in Yamanashi Prefecture, near Tokyo, has a majestic view of Mount Fuji and a five-story pagoda.
The scenic spot in Fujiyoshida City has become popular on social media. The park draws about 200,000 visitors, including foreign tourists, during the cherry blossom season every year.
City officials say more than 10,000 people visit the park a day at peak times, creating challenges linked to overtourism that affect residents’ daily lives.
The problems include traffic congestion and trash being left on the streets.
The officials decided to cancel this year’s cherry blossom festival to protect the city residents’ quality of life. They say they do not yet know if the event can be resumed next year.
AloJapan.com