Mount Fuji Cherry Blossom Festival Cancelled Due to Tourist Misbehavior

Authorities in Fujiyoshida have officially axed the famous annual sakura festival at Arakurayama Sengen Park. The decision stems from a “crisis of overtourism,” where the influx of up to 200,000 visitors led to trespassing, littering, and significant disruption to local residents’ daily lives. Reports even mentioned tourists pushing schoolchildren off sidewalks to secure viral social media shots, forcing the mayor to prioritize the community’s dignity over tourism revenue.

Despite the cancellation, a massive wave of travelers is still expected this season due to the weak yen making Japan more affordable. To manage the crowds, officials are deploying extra security and portable toilets, warning that wait times for the iconic Chureito Pagoda view could exceed three hours. This move follows other strict measures in the region, such as hiking fees and daily visitor caps on Mount Fuji’s popular trails to combat pollution and safety hazards.

Japan continues to struggle with the double-edged sword of viral fame. Previous efforts to curb unruly crowds included erecting large fences to block views in nearby towns. For now, travelers are urged to use public transport, respect private property, and follow local etiquette to ensure that Mount Fuji remains a livable home for residents, not just a backdrop for a selfie.

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