Ifah SakinahHanami, the well-loved Japanese traditional custom of enjoying the transient beauty of flowers in shades of white to dark pink, colloquially known as cherry blossom viewing will not be commemorated this April. This is because Japan cherry blossom festivals have been cancelled in light of the coronavirus (COVID-19) that has been spreading globally and causing distress.
The customary spring celebrations in Tokyo and Osaka, which have been attracting millions of visitors from all over annually, will not go ahead as planned in April – the latest in an increasing list of events called off as the epidemic raises concerns.
“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 on 28 February.
Other highly-awaited Japan cherry blossom events are likely to follow suit, according to local media.
Also Read: Tokyo Disneyland Temporarily Closed Due To The Coronavirus
However, organisers of Tokyo’s Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Festival made known that people could still catch sight of the burgeoning trees that grow along public roads.
The cancellations came into effect as the authorities in Japan ramp up measures to tackle the deadly disease which has plagued the country located in East Asia. There are currently 240 confirmed cases of infection in Japan till date, excluding the almost 700 people who fell ill on the Diamond Princess cruise ship.
Moreover, popular tourist destinations – Disneyland and Disneysea – in Tokyo would be shuttered for about two weeks as a result of the COVID-19. They have been tentatively slated to operate again on 16 March. Universal Studios Japan in Osaka has also closed its doors to visitors for the time being.
Also Read: COVID-19 Update: Shenzhen Prepares Ban On Consumption Of Cats And Dogs
