Japan Cancels Iconic Cherry Blossom Festival Amid Overtourism Concerns
Spring approaches with its annual spectacle of delicate pale pink cherry blossoms, traditionally celebrated in Japan where millions flock to witness the iconic sakura season each April. However, in a significant development, authorities have cancelled this year's festival in Fujiyoshida, near Mount Fuji, citing unmanageable tourist pressures.
Mayor Shigeru Horiuchi announced the decision to end the decade-old festival, stating it was necessary to protect residents' dignity and living environment. The town typically welcomes around 10,000 daily visitors during peak blossom season, leading to reported incidents of littering, trespassing, and disruption to local life.
Where to See Cherry Blossoms in London
While Japan's festival cancellation disappoints international travellers, the United Kingdom offers numerous spectacular locations to experience cherry blossoms. London boasts several prime viewing spots that have gained popularity among nature enthusiasts and photographers alike.
Greenwich Park remains a top destination, with visitors praising the beautiful displays along Blackheath Avenue. Social media users describe it as a "sakura tunnel" perfect for picnics, though visitors should note it can become extremely crowded, particularly with photography enthusiasts.
Additional London locations include:
- St Paul's Cathedral: Cherry trees in the churchyard provide picturesque framing of the iconic dome
- Kew Gardens: Vibrant blossom trees line the Rose Garden behind the Palm House
- Regent's Park: Avenue Gardens offers romantic strolls beneath flowering branches
- St James's Park: Scattered trees create perfect settings for spring walks
- Crouch End: Cecile Park features residential streets lined with impressive blossoms
National Cherry Blossom Destinations Across the UK
Beyond the capital, numerous parks and estates across Britain have established reputations for their beautiful cherry displays, typically blooming during April.
Northern England offers several notable locations. In Yorkshire, The Stray in Harrogate features avenues of double-flowering cherry trees planted for Queen Elizabeth II's coronation, sometimes blooming alongside daffodils and crocuses. Further north, Edinburgh's Royal Botanic Gardens showcases Yoshino cherry trees along Sakura Brae, planted as part of the late Queen's Green Canopy initiative.
Midlands and Wales present diverse options. Keele University in Staffordshire boasts a National Plant Collection with over 240 cherry varieties in its free-to-visit arboretum. In Wales, the National Botanic Garden features a Japanese garden enhanced with additional cherry trees, while Dyffryn Gardens offers woodland walks among flowering specimens.
Southern England provides historic settings. Doddington Hall in Lincolnshire offers extended blooming periods across its Elizabethan gardens, while Kent's Ightham Mote features blossoms throughout its tranquil estate. National Trust properties like Dunham Massey in Cheshire combine blossoms with medieval deer parks and historic houses.
With Japan's festival cancellation redirecting attention to domestic alternatives, these UK locations offer accessible opportunities to experience the beauty of cherry blossoms while supporting local tourism and conservation efforts.
