Spend Spring in Japan During Cherry Blossom Season, a Symbol of Renewal
In the Land of the Rising Sun, the blooming of the sakura trees, with their pink and white petal clouds, is a joyful celebration. Locals welcome the arrival of spring with small rituals and spiritual rejuvenation. Sit on the grass in one of Tokyo’s many parks and marvel at this stunning natural rebirth.
Exploring the world’s most populous, vibrant metropolis is best done at dawn. Don’t miss the bustling Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo, where you can taste the world’s freshest and masterfully prepared sashimi. Discover the various districts of Tokyo: the quirky Asakusa, once the city’s leading entertainment district and now a charming, relaxing oasis; modern Shinjuku, known as the skyscraper district and home to many top-tier hotels; and Shibuya, Tokyo’s most colorful and busiest area, where the famous intersection sees up to 100,000 people cross hourly.
Did you know Tokyo is one of the world’s fashion capitals? Nowhere else do young people dress as colorfully, creatively, and boldly as they do here. While most strive to wear the most eye-catching clothes, the overall diversity seems natural in the city’s hustle and bustle.
When in Japan, you must ride the Shinkansen. This high-speed train, known for its comfort, safety, and incredible design, connects the country’s main islands at speeds over 300 km/h.
Admire the historic and beautifully situated Osaka Castle, then stroll through the modern Umeda district and take in the captivating cityscape from the Umeda Sky Building’s terrace. Don’t miss the Osaka Aquarium, home to the world’s largest aquatic life, where the nighttime exhibit showcases the stunning marine life under magical evening lights with pleasant music.
Visit the city of Hiroshima, marked by its tragic past but now a place of peace and understanding. From here, travel to Miyajima, known as the “shrine island,” where the floating Torii gate at high tide offers a magical sight. The unique Itsukushima Shrine’s structures are built over water, and the freely roaming deer add to the local charm. End your day with a culinary delight: grilled oysters from the city’s best restaurant.
Spend your final days in Kyoto, where you can admire countless traditional Japanese pagoda buildings and peaceful temples, explore ancient streets, and meet maikos (geisha apprentices). Enhance your culinary experiences with green tea ice cream. Participate in a kaiseki, a multi-course Japanese meal originally presented to the royal and noble classes. The principle behind kaiseki is to make guests feel special, with the chef striving for excellence in every detail.
