Japan’s cherry blossom season has become one of the world’s most photographed travel moments—and that popularity is now forcing hard decisions on the ground.
Tourism to Japan has surged dramatically over the past few years, fueled by a weak yen and pent-up post-pandemic demand. In 2025 alone, more than 42 million international visitors traveled to the country, setting a new all-time record and surpassing 2024’s already historic totals. What was once a seasonal draw has turned into a year-round wave, with spring’s cherry blossoms acting as the peak.
This week, that pressure came into sharp focus in Fujiyoshida, a city in Yamanashi Prefecture known for its postcard views of Mount Fuji framed by cherry trees and a five-story pagoda. Local officials announced the cancellation of the city’s annual cherry blossom festival, a week-long event that typically draws around 200,000 visitors. The reason wasn’t weather or logistics—it was quality of life.
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In Japan’s springtime, crowds gather to see cherry blossoms at some of the country’s most famous viewpoints. At Arakurayama Sengen Park near Mount Fuji, lines of visitors often stretch hundreds of meters as people climb the hillside stairs for a glimpse of the iconic pagoda framed by sakura.Alvin Huang
City leaders said the scale of tourism had begun to overwhelm residents, citing chronic traffic congestion, littering, trespassing and behavior that crossed from disruptive into deeply disrespectful. In a statement explaining the decision, Fujiyoshida’s mayor said the city faced a “strong sense of crisis,” noting that behind the celebrated scenery was the reality of daily life becoming increasingly difficult for locals.
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The decision reflects a broader reckoning happening across Japan. In Kyoto, another springtime magnet, officials have struggled with overcrowding and complaints about tourists harassing geisha performers for photos. Other towns near Mount Fuji have experimented with physical barriers to block popular photo angles, hiking caps and entry fees—measures once unthinkable in a country known for welcoming visitors with open arms.
Even with the festival officially canceled, Fujiyoshida expects crowds to continue. The park where the event is usually held remains open, and Mount Fuji’s pull is perennial. Officials acknowledge that cancellation alone won’t make the crowds disappear—but they hope it sends a message about boundaries.
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