We’re stuck inside, travel (and other life) restrictions in full swing. But our minds are still free. And there are so many things we can learn, enjoy, and discover from the wonders of our own internet-filled living rooms. So, where should we begin?
I’ve been fortunate to have had the opportunity to travel quite a bit over the past ~decade. I actually started this blog hoping to share and process some of those experiences but to be honest, I’m usually too busy enjoying the trip to take the time to sit down and capture it in words! And when I do, it takes me forever because I agonize over making it perfect – as any self-respecting, detail-oriented scientist would. 🙂 Ahhhh…luckily, I’ve suddenly found myself with a lot of time at home on my hands. It still won’t be perfect, but at least it’ll occupy a few minutes of my time. And maybe it’ll be a welcome and positive distraction for you, too.
Instead of debating the perfect opening post, I’m just going with the one that calls me in the moment. Growing up near Washington DC meant that The Cherry Blossom Festival was always such a big deal. If you’ve never witnessed first hand the pink and white beauty reflecting in the Tidal Basin, you should really add it to your bucket list! I can’t remember the last time I went, though, because the number of tourists usually outnumbers even the number of blossoms. That is, if you are lucky enough to catch a peek before rain, snow, wind or any number of other natural “disasters” wipes the blooms off the trees and leaves puddles of pink on the ground. If I lived within walking distance, this would definitely be the year to try since tourism is limited. Anybody from DC reading this? Have you seen them this year? ❤️
In early March of 2015, I went to another cherry blossom festival – the Kawazu Sakurai Matsuri on the Izu Peninsula in Japan. Cherry trees in Kawazu are some of the earliest and slowest blooming in eastern Japan, providing the more than 1 million annual visitors with a wonderful welcome to spring.
Reaching Kawazu is a relatively easy by train and once you are there, you notice not just the beauty but also the street festival atmosphere during this time of year.
Families come to enjoy good weather and partake in shows, games and of course food!
Luckily for me, not everything was made of fish…hahahaha.
If you want to learn more about this festival, here’s a great summary.
This trip was for me, at the time, a welcome break from the bustle of busy Tokyo (and life in general!). Today, it brings back fond memories of a wonderful trip with friends and colleagues. If you find yourself in Japan, make your way to Kawazu and enjoy!
