Japanese authorities in the town of Fujiyoshida near Mount Fuji have cancelled this year's cherry blossom festival due to concerns about overtourism.
Fujiyoshida mayor Shigeru Horiuchi said the city had to cancel the 10-year-old festival to protect the dignity and living environment of the citizens following increased traffic congestion and litter in the region.
The area is a popular destination during spring (April and May) as Japan's cherry trees are in full bloom, which can be admired with Mount Fuji in the background.
However, the number of visitors in recent years has exceeded the city's capacity, resulting in the cancellation of the festival. Although the festival will not take place, the city is still expecting an increased number of visitors over the cherry blossom season.
