On Thursday, the Japanese Prime Minister announced the extension of the emergency order already in place in the south of Japan. (External news links: Asahi, Bloomberg). Hokkaido has already implemented and exited from one voluntary stay-at-home period, so we are optimistic that this one will also be effective.

We would like to thank so much all the people around the world who have sent us their best wishes. Especially, to all the artists who reacted with such understanding to the cancelling of their participation in this year’s festival, we appreciate your messages so much. And, we were so amazed by the response to our request for donations to cover our fixed costs. We were hesitant with the message that we have large outlay even if we don’t have a large event, but the open-hearted and warm gestures we received were incredible. During this time when financial hardship is widespread, it was an inspiration for us.

So now, the cherry blossom season starts to arrive in our northern land. Its welcome will be more restrained than usual. But as we contemplate from indoors, we will be re-doubled in our commitment to bring you some kind of event to brighten the 2020 calendar. What will be able to do? We will be thinking hard, and we hope that you too may join us with any suggestions.

Stay tuned, be kind, and stay safe. Thank you so much.