Hanami in Japan

It is Spring again in Japan. This is actually my 5th spring in Japan. I even have to admit that I am suprised. When I arrived here in 2008, the plan was to only stay here for 2 years and then head back to Canada. A few years later and I am still here in Japan working and living life with my very awesome family.

I have to admit that my favorite time of year in Japan has always been spring. Back home in Canada, I love Fall. Fall in Canada is an amazing time that always brings back incredible memories of going back to school, Halloween, Remembrance Day (a sombre occasion, but as a kid somehow exciting) and of course the anticipation of Christmas.

In Japan, spring is a festive time. it is a time to shake off winter and get ready for Hanami! Hanami basiacally translates to "cherry blossom viewing." In Japan, the blossoming of the cherry trees is a very major thing. Across the country, people head out in the millions to look at the "sakura" or cherry blossoms, take pictures of them, have picnics under them and drink tons of booze. It is a festive and very fun time of year.

I wanted to share a few of my cherry blossom photos from this spring here in Kobe.

A Spring Week in Japan

With the addition of running to my life, things have gotten a lot busier. Since going back to work this week and training again, I have precious little time in the day to even think about blogging and even that time will be reduced in the coming weeks.

I wanted to share some photos I took this week with my iPhone.

A spring week in Japan:

Magnolias in Kobe

Yet another sign of Spring in Japan. The magnolias are Blooming around Kobe. I took these pictures earlier in the week (I am vacation and have ample time to photograph flowers) in Motomachi.

I took this picture across the street from the Starbucks close to the entrance to Chinatown. In the background you can see the old American Consulate (I believe it is a big and tall clothing shop now).

It was an overcast and dreary day, but I was still happy to have the time to frolic through the streets, taking pictures of very "Un-masculine" things!