Today was our first day in Tokyo. We met out guide Rube in reception and she helped us understand our itinerary, how to use the subway and activated our PASMO and JR cards. Rube was so lovely (she even gave us a little gift). After the orientation briefing was completed she asked us whether we would like to go exploring on our own or with her. When we said we’d like her to come along, she did a little jump for joy.
We visited the Imperial Palace. We were very lucky today because the Sakashita-mon Gate was open to the public (it is only open twice a year in Cherry Blossom season and in the autumn, for one week). We were also lucky because it just so happens that the reigning Emperor is abdicating in favour of the Crown Prince this month and today the New Imperial Era of “Reiwa” was announced. As you can imagine, the Palace was full of visitors (both foreign and Japanese) who had travelled to be there on this special day and to view the blossom. We wondered around the grounds, taking pictures of the cherry blossom and admiring the grounds.
Following a farewell to Rube, we had a leisurely lunch then headed to the Tokyo Sky Tree. Phil is now a master of the Tokyo subway system - we managed to get there by ourselves without getting lost. If you are afraid of heights the Sky Tree experience is definitely not for you. The elevators were the best part, the view was a little underwhelming due to the cloud but that couldn’t be helped.
I’m pretty pleased with our first day in Japan. The cherry blossom was everything I had hoped it would be. Now it’s time for a little nap before heading out for dinner.
- Hippie -