Japan cherry blossom festivals cancelled as coronavirus fears grow

The cancellations come as authorities step up efforts to tackle the outbreak in Japan

Last updated: February 29, 2020 | 14:20

AFP and Compiled by Christian Borbon, Digital Content Producer

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Major cherry blossom festivals in Japan have been cancelled due to the deadly new coronavirus, the latest in a growing list of events quashed as the epidemic spreads globally.

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The traditional spring celebrations in Tokyo and Osaka, which attract millions of people wanting to seeing the white and pink flowers, will not go ahead as planned in April.

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"We are sincerely sorry for those who were looking forward to the viewing... but please give us your understanding," the Japan Mint in Osaka said Friday.

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Other cherry blossom events - feverishly anticipated by locals and tourists - are likely to follow suit, according to local media.

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Organisers of Tokyo's Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Festival said people could still enjoy the blooming trees that grow along public roads.

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Trees in Tokyo will soon be in full bloom, with friends, families and colleagues typically flocking to parks for sometimes raucous celebrations.

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The cancellations come as authorities step up efforts to tackle the outbreak in Japan, which has reported more than 230 infections and five deaths.

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