TOKYO, Feb 29, 2020 (BSS/AFP) – 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.
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.
“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.
Other cherry blossom events — feverishly anticipated by locals and
tourists — are likely to follow suit, according to local media.
Organisers of Tokyo’s Nakameguro Cherry Blossom Festival said people could
still enjoy the blooming trees that grow along public roads.
Trees in Tokyo will soon be in full bloom, with friends, families and
colleagues typically flocking to parks for sometimes raucous, alcohol-fuelled
celebrations.