Japan cancels cherry blossom festivals as virus fears grow

As cases of the novel coronavirus continues to spread around the globe, Japan's famous cherry blossom festivals are the latest victim. The country cancelled all of its major cherry blossom festivals in an effort to contain the spread of the novel coronavirus.

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.

The cancellations come as authorities step up efforts to tackle the outbreak in Japan.

Schools are closed and the government is urging people to work from home or commute during off-peak hours and avoid large gatherings.

The operator of Tokyo's two Disney resorts – Disneyland and DisneySea – said on Friday the parks would be closed for around two weeks due to the outbreak of the virus.

Universal Studios Japan in Osaka has also shuttered for a fortnight.