Every year since 1952, the prime minister, via taxpayer funds, has hosted one of the nation's largest cherry blossom-viewing parties.

But with allegations of cronyism and favoritism surrounding the selection of invitees by Prime Minister Shinzo Abe and his administration, next year's party has been canceled, and opposition parties are continuing to grill the government in a scandal that shows no sign of ending anytime soon.

What goes on at this annual cherry blossom party and who is invited?