People take pictures of cherry blossoms in full bloom along the Meguro river. AFP

Gulf Today Report 

With fluorescent tape used to cordon off picnic spots, and signs warning people, Tokyo has cancelled annual festivals “to enjoy the cherry blossoms” due to the pandemic.

However, Tokyo residents still flock to parks, shrines and rivers on Friday to admire the cherry blossoms in full bloom.

Adorned with their masks, many people decided to make the most of Friday’s clear blue skies to snap "sakura" selfies, stroll down blossom-lined paths or take boat rides under the pink-and-white blooms. 

A person takes a photo of cherry blossoms. AP

Japan has recorded around 9,000 coronavirus deaths and unlike most countries, it has not imposed blanket lockdowns.

Its sakura or cherry blossom season is feverishly anticipated by locals and visitors alike, although this year foreign tourists have been kept away by virus border restrictions.

Cherry blossoms symbolise the fragility of life in Japanese culture as full blooms only last about a week before the petals start falling off trees. 

A woman poses for pictures with cherry blossoms. AFP

It is traditionally celebrated with hanami, or viewing parties, with picnics -- and sometimes boozy festivities -- organised beneath the trees.

The season is also considered one of change as it marks the start of the new business year, with many university graduates starting their first full-time jobs and older colleagues shifting to new positions.