Cherry Blossom Festival Draws Mixed Reactions in Japanese Towns Over Overtourism

FUJIYOSHIDA, JAPAN - APRIL 08: Tourists wait in line to visit the observation deck beneath cherry trees in bloom while Mount Fuji is seen in the background at Arakurayama Sengen Park on April 08, 2026 in Fujiyoshida, Yamanashi Prefecture, Japan. During the cherry blossom season, Fujiyoshida City canceled its annual festival at Arakurayama Sengen Park this year due to over tourism affecting the local living environment while neighboring Fujikawaguchiko Town continues to hold its festival. (Photo by Tomohiro Ohsumi/Getty Images)