Japanese city cancels cherry blossom festival due to overwhelming success.

A Japanese city has cancelled its annual cherry blossom festival due to concerns over high tourist numbers, with Fujiyoshida mayor Shigeru Horiuchi citing the need to protect residents’ living conditions and dignity. The festival, held in Arakurayama Sengen Park, became too popular on social media, leading to issues like traffic congestion and trespassing. Despite the cancellation, the city expects continued crowds due to the park’s iconic view of Mount Fuji, prompting nearby towns to implement measures like view-blocking barriers and entry fees to manage overtourism.

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