Seasons turn, spring comes and cherry blossoms bloom, even amid a novel coronavirus pandemic.
But with Tokyo’s state of emergency lifted just ahead of full bloom, concerns are rising that infections will rise with more people going out for their annual hanami outing — watching the cherry blossoms and eating and drinking under the trees.
Visiting two of Tokyo’s key spots for cherry blossom viewing — Ueno Park and along the Meguro River, both of which are clamping down on parties this year — The Japan Times asked visitors for their views on what can be done to enjoy the blossoms safely.