Cherry Blossoms in Japan have a special, bittersweet meaning and is an important reminder once a year. But I think even now, with the season we are currently in – the meaning holds more weight. The Sakura season doesn’t last long (it can be a fickle season to plan travel for). For a few weeks, Cherry Trees all over the country bloom in an explosion of pinks and whites to be viewed together with family and friends. However, soon after…
There are a few go-to touristy spots to Hanami under Cherry Blossom trees, but for the most part I found Sakura viewing a local experience. One of my favorite days while living in Japan was stumbling upon what seemed to be an untouched neighborhood. A stream flowed through this area, surrounded by gorgeous Cherry Blossoms. Although the busier spots have their own excitement, some of the best Sakura moments were sitting down in local Tokyo Cherry Blossom spots for Hanami.…
Cherry Blossom season in Japan is starting yet again and I find myself reminiscing about living near Tokyo during this time. My first Cherry Blossom post of this year is one of the more famous places to view these flowers, Chidorigafuchi. Over 200 Cherry Trees drape over the Northwest moat of the Imperial Palace creating a picturesque Sakura viewing. You may have seen photos of the row boats with couples or friends along the river making the scene that more…
This post is a long time coming! This past April we finally marked another item off of our massive Japan bucketlist! Dress up in your favorite character, step into your very own Mario Kart in Tokyo and explore the busy streets. Need I say more? Everyone who has this experience often has the question – “how in the world in this legal?” In most cities it wouldn’t be, but somehow in the largest city in the world – it is.…
In a city filled with “hole in the wall” cafes and hidden coffee shops on tiny alley-like streets, it can be hard to find exactly what you’re looking for. If you are like me, you immediately begin to google where the perfect coffee shops are before you travel. After compiling all my coffee shop explorations, I have finally completed my ultimate guide to all things Tokyo coffee shops! First, there are SO many coffee shops in this ever expanding city. After…