Dreaming of sakura season: a 38-year journey to Japan.
When I was in third grade, a spark was ignited when I learned about Japan from a cultural exchange teacher who lived in my small town for a year. I was fascinated by her Japanese culture including her kimono, tea ceremony, calligraphy, and origami. I also learned about the cherry blossom season, affectionately known as Sakura season. I decided in third grade that one day I would go to Japan and see her again.
Thirty-eight years later, my dream came true. I centered my entire trip to Japan around reconnecting with my teacher during the famous pink petal season, and the reunion didn’t disappoint.
I travelled to Japan by myself, and I found it to be a very safe place to visit. I will admit it was intense navigating the train stations, as the number of people paired with the vastness of the train system took me out of my comfort zone! And the cars drive on the opposite side of the road.
The public transit in Japan is exceptional and well-connected. I did manage on my own using my Japan Rail Pass—with much success. The bullet trains run like clockwork; they whisked me from city to city with ease. I opted for the “Green” seating, which is equivalent to a first-class cabin. It was very quiet, spacious, and exceptionally clean. I was able to order snacks via a QR code from my seat, and they were delivered promptly.
My journey began in Hiroshima, where I joined a poignant bike tour to learn about the devastating history of the Atomic Bomb. I also visited the Peace Memorial Museum. It was a powerful experience that left a deep impact. I joined evening food tours, which allowed me to savor delicious cuisine and learn more about Japanese food culture while enjoying conversations with fellow travelers (note: be sure to try the okonomiyaki!).
Next, I ventured to Mount Koyasan—a highlight of my trip! I stayed in a serene monastery nestled in nature and surrounded by traditional Japanese architecture, where all meals served were vegetarian. I slept on a shikibuton, the traditional Japanese futon, placed atop tatami mats. The experience was complete with an onsen (hot spring) bath. In Koya, I opted for a night tour under the stars to explore the sacred Buddhist site of Okunoin Cemetery with a local monk.
In Kyoto, I delved into the world of geishas on a fascinating tour, gaining insight into this historical and cultural phenomenon.
The excitement built as I boarded the bullet train to Tokyo, where I was finally going to meet my exchange teacher again after decades apart. The emotions were palpable!
Together, we immersed ourselves in everything Tokyo! We ran with linked arms across the iconic Shibuya Crossing scramble—not once, not twice, but three times! We visited municipal parks and saw people sitting under the famous cherry blossom trees, welcoming the new season.
And we even tried our hand at making food replicas (known as shokuhin sanpuru) at Tokyo Tower. You see food replicas outside restaurants all over Japan, it gives customers a sense of what to expect once inside. A very cultural experience. It was weird and awesome!
One evening, we took a night cruise on the Sumida River to admire Tokyo's dazzling lights. I even woke up early to join a 5:00 a.m. tour of the Toyosu Market. I attended the tuna auction and explored the renowned Tsukiji Fish Market (I ate the freshest sushi here!) And finally, we enjoyed a rickshaw tour to get a unique perspective of the bustling Asakusa neighborhood.
The Japanese are very gracious, kind people—and they love rules! I found Japan to be one of the cleanest countries I’ve ever visited. Visiting during the Sakura season was everything I dreamed it would be and I would go back in a heartbeat.
Written for Paull Travel by Jalene E. Murphy, May 2025
