Japan: A town near Mount Fuji has cancelled its annual cherry blossom festival after tourist numbers became unmanageable for residents. Fujiyoshida, a popular spring destination known for its cherry trees framed by Japan’s most iconic peak, has struggled to manage the sheer volume of visitors drawn by the seasonal spectacle.
City authorities say traffic congestion, overflowing rubbish, and repeated cases of trespassing have reached a breaking point. +Residents have complained of tourists wandering into private homes and gardens, using residential areas as public toilets, and ignoring basic rules of conduct. Officials say such behaviour has steadily eroded the quality of life in the community.
Mayor Shigeru Horiuchi said the decision to cancel the festival was taken to safeguard residents and restore a sense of order. He described the situation as a serious challenge to the town’s dignity and warned that unchecked tourism was no longer sustainable.
The cherry blossom event, launched in 2016 at Arakurayama Sengen Park, was originally designed to boost tourism and bring energy to the area. The site, known for its pagoda and panoramic views of Mount Fuji, later gained global attention through social media, fuelling a sharp rise in visitor numbers.
In recent years, officials estimate that as many as 10,000 people a day arrive during peak blossom season, driven by viral images and a weak yen that has made Japan more attractive to foreign travelers.
While the festival itself will not take place, Fujiyoshida expects crowds to continue through April and May and says preparations are underway to manage the flow as best as possible.
The move highlights Japan’s growing struggle with overtourism. Last year, nearby Fujikawaguchiko placed a large black screen to block a popular photo spot after repeated complaints about littering and illegal parking.
Similar measures are being seen elsewhere. Rome has introduced a €2 fee to access the Trevi Fountain viewing area, while Venice now charges day visitors between €5 and €10 in a move to protect local communities.
