The Japanese city of Fujiyoshida near Mount Fuji has canceled its annual cherry blossom festival due to growing concerns over unruly tourism disrupting daily life. Residents and officials cited traffic jams, littering, and disrespectful behavior as reasons for the first-ever cancellation. Despite this, many visitors are still expected during the sakura season, prompting local authorities to plan crowd-management measures.
The decision highlights just how powerful cherry blossom season is in Japan. There’s no other place on Earth that celebrates the blooms quite like it. As the buds burst open in parks and streets across the country, people gather for picnics and hanami (flower-viewing parties) to appreciate the flowers’ fleeting beauty and welcome spring. Celebrated for centuries, sakura season continues to draw travelers from around the world.
Regardless of festival cancellations, the natural spectacle remains unchanged. According to the Japan Meteorological Corporation, this year’s cherry blossoms are expected to bloom around the same time as in recent years, typically between late March and late April, with only minor fluctuations of a few days.
Curious to learn more? Click on for everything you need to know about the Japanese cherry blossom season.