We are only just approaching the official cherry blossom viewing although, due to higher than normal temperatures this year, some of the trees were already in bloom when I visited from 1-15 March.
In the above frame which I cut from the photo I posted earlier, you can see the reverential treatment the Japanese give to their unofficial national bloom.
This photo was taken in Kamakura on 4 March; well ahead of hanami. As well as picnicking, hanami can be combined with temples and shrines.
Tori leading to a Shinto shrine (Kamakura)
This Big Buddha was reached by taking a short train ride. Buddhism and Shintism co-exist harmoniously in Japan.
Whereas Buddhist temples tend to be used for funerals, Shinto temples are used for weddings.
March 24, 2009 at 9:08 am
Oh wow now I can hardly contain myself! I SO want to be there now!
March 24, 2009 at 10:43 am
I didn’t get to view any castles on this trip. You may be able to visit Himeji, which I visited when K was living in Osaka.
March 25, 2009 at 11:12 am
I guess this weekend or maybe next weekend will be optimum time for hanami. And Kay, I’m pretty sure there’s a castle in Kyoto (although I’ve never visited it), Nijo is the name which come to mind.
March 26, 2009 at 3:44 pm
The pictures are amazing. Esp Lord Buddha.