Fujiyoshida Cancels Cherry Blossom Festival Amid Overtourism Concerns
The city of Fujiyoshida in Japan has announced the cancellation of its renowned Sakura Festival, which celebrates the annual cherry blossom bloom. The decision was made to address growing concerns regarding the overwhelming number of tourists visiting the area, which has started to disrupt the quality of life for local residents.
Impact on the Community
Mayor Shigeru Horiuchi stated that the festival, which took place in Arakurayama Sengen Park and attracted crowds each spring for a decade, will not occur this year. He expressed that it is imperative to safeguard the well-being and dignity of the residents. The festival, traditionally held in early April, is synonymous with the picturesque pink flowers that line the park, providing views of the majestic Mount Fuji.
Social Media Influence
Arakurayama Sengen Park has seen a surge in popularity via social media platforms, especially Instagram, where users share breathtaking images of Mount Fuji framed by cherry blossoms. Mayor Horiuchi noted that while the mountain is cherished for its beauty and cultural significance, the flip side is an escalating crisis affecting residents’ peaceful lifestyles.
Residents Voice Their Concerns
Local inhabitants have raised issues about increased traffic congestion, litter, and disrespectful behaviour from tourists, including trespassing and public urination in private gardens. Reports indicate that the festival, intended to attract tourists, has become too successful, creating challenges for those who call Fujiyoshida home.
Growing Tourism Numbers
Japan’s tourism sector is experiencing significant growth, with the number of visitors climbing to over 39 million in 2025, up from nearly 37 million in 2024, as stated by the Japan National Tourism Organisation. This rise has been partly attributed to the depreciation of the Japanese yen, making it more affordable for international travellers.
Future Measures
Despite the festival’s cancellation, city officials acknowledge that this may not be sufficient to alleviate tourist pressure on the park. In response to the overwhelming crowds, nearby areas have explored various strategies, such as installing view-blocking barriers, implementing entry fees for hikers, and limiting visitor numbers.
Background
The Arakurayama Sengen Park Sakura Festival was first initiated ten years ago to encourage tourism and celebrate the blooming season. However, as visitor numbers skyrocketed, the festival’s original intent has been overshadowed by concerns of overtourism.
This cancellation serves as a clear indicator of the challenges faced by popular tourist destinations, not only in Japan but worldwide, as communities strive to find a balance between economic benefit and residents’ quality of life.
Source: Original Article
