Fujiyoshida Cancels Mount Fuji Cherry Blossom Festival Citing Overtourism Concerns

The city of Fujiyoshida near Mount Fuji has cancelled its annual cherry blossom festival after a decade due to overtourism concerns. The event, attracting around 200,000 visitors annually, led to severe traffic congestion, littering, and disruptive behaviors such as trespassing and defecation on private property. Officials cited a surge in tourists driven by a weak yen and social media popularity, emphasizing the need to protect residents' living environment. Despite the cancellation, the scenic park may still attract visitors during the season.