Sakura hunting

The rains and subsequent temperature drop had delayed sakura in Tokyo and Kyoto and our hopes of getting glimpses of Japan’s famed cherry blossom were low (at least in this week). But Purva had found via TikTok that Shioiri Park had sakura trees blossoming already. So we decided to test our high hopes and go sakura hunting. After initially feeling disappointed when we couldn’t find any trees in bloom in the park, we persisted and were finally graced with a long riverside row of cherry trees, most of which were in full bloom. It was a stunning sight, and everyone in the group was delighted, especially the people who were leaving Japan by the end of the week. After countless pictures, we headed onwards to Ueno Park (because our cab driver had told us that the big tree there had also blossomed). Unfortunately, the reality in Ueno Park was much less impressive. Yes, there was a tree which had blossomed, but it was nothing compared to the sights we had seen in Shioiri Park. Divya decided to get some light bites in the food stalls in the park and was accidentally hit by an allergic reaction. Once the reaction was under control, we went back to the hotel for some sleep before our evening outing.Read more