An area is closed off to prevent people from gathering to view cherry blossoms in Metropolitan Inokashira Park in Mitaka, western Tokyo, on March 15. (Keiichiro Inoue)
Cherry trees are forecast to be in full bloom within a week or so in Tokyo, thanks to the spring sun, but officials are trying to nip the usual accompanying festive atmosphere in the bud.
Officials have closed off popular viewing spots, including many parks and riverside paths normally packed with strollers and drinkers around this time of year, to prevent the novel coronavirus and its new variants from spreading. Many cherry blossom-viewing festivals have been canceled as well.