Japanese Town Cancels Cherry Blossom Festival Due to Badly Behaving Tourists

Authorities in the Japanese town of Fujiyoshida have cancelled the annual cherry blossom festival, stating that the surge in tourist numbers has become unmanageable for the local community.

The town, a popular destination for viewing Mount Fuji, has struggled with chronic traffic congestion and incidents of visitors trespassing on private property.

Mayor Shigeru Horiuchi announced the decision on Tuesday, declaring that the city felt a “strong sense of crisis.”

He stated that the 10-year-old festival would be discontinued to protect the dignity and living environment of the citizens.

The problems stem from the massive influx of visitors to Arakurayama Sengen Park, a site famous for its views of the Chureito Pagoda with Mount Fuji in the background.

Initially opened to tourists in April 2016 to boost local appeal, the location has since become a victim of its own success.

City officials report that daily visitor numbers now reach 10,000 during the peak blossom season.

This increase is attributed to the weak yen and the “explosive popularity” of the scenic spot on social media platforms.

The statement from the authorities detailed severe disruptions caused by tourists, including opening the doors of private homes to use restrooms without permission, littering, and defecating in private yards.

Residents who attempted to point out these violations were reportedly met with hostility.

Although the festival itself will not take place, the city is still preparing for a significant number of visitors during April and May.

This incident follows a similar pattern in the region.

In 2024, the neighbouring town of Fujikawaguchiko erected a large black barrier to block a popular photo spot, aiming to deter tourists who were obstructing traffic and littering in their pursuit of social media images.