Japan - Tokyo Sakura

Back on the bullet train for 24 hours in Tokyo where we were hoping to see Sakura (cherry blossom). We were delighted to see lots of trees in blossom, with many Hanami (parties held underneath the trees) underway.

We joined in the fun and met two lovely Japanese gentlemen who managed a large building in Ueno that annually hosts outside food and drinks stalls during the blossom. The gents, both in their 70's, still working, were keen to find out about both our travels and culture in the UK.

We just missed out on the illuminated blossom that lines the moat by the Imperial Palace, as they were not being switched on until the following day, luckily we had arrived whilst it was still light, so enjoyed the daylight display.

On our final morning we ventured into our local park at Ueno to get some photos without the crowds. At 7am some parties were already going, with beer and whisky highballs already being cracked open! We also popped along to the suburb of Shibuya where blossom lined the Meguro river and saw a lovely display. Next stop Hong Kong.