2nd Day was welcomed by the shiny Golden Pavilion

 The city bus took us to the Golden Pavilion where we began today's schedule.   Like last year's trip, after the Golden Pavilion, we walked to the Ryoanji Temple to enjoy its Rock Garden.  This year we could enjoy half-bloomed Cherry Blossoms.

We all ate at the Ryoyukan Cafeteria of Ritsumeikan University where Shingo was graduated from some 40 years ago.

After lunch, we walked to Kitano Tenmangu Shrine via Hirano Shrine where Sakura was beautifully blossomed.

Randen train took us back to the hotel and our day was wonderfully fulfilled.

1st day of the trip has already been filled with SAKURA

 We left the hotel for Nijo Castle, and on the way, we went through the Sanjo shopping street to reach SHINSEN'EN and take a little photo break.  Then we proceeded to Nijo Castle where we had a chance to enjoy full-bloomed Sakura in its garden.

After that Kyoto City Subway took us to KEAGE where we walked up along INCLINE to reach the back door of Nanzenji Temple where some Sakura and incense of the temple relaxed us before lunch.

After lunch, we walk to Maruyama Park via Chion'in Temple.  Kyoto city's one of the main Sakura (Shidare Zakura, or willow cherry) in Maruyama Park where people enjoy many food vendors.

Maruyama Park is connected to Yasaka Shrine from which we walked to the central area of Kyoto on foot.

It was a bit chilly and windy but the perfect day for walking.

2025 Spring Sakura VIewing Trip has begun

We missed the full bloom of Sakura last year by just a week.

This year, we should be just right on time.

We arrived in Kyoto as scheduled though there were some hassle-bustle experiences in Haneda, Tokyo.

Everyone seems to be exhausted but hopefully get some rest against their jet lag and be ready for long walk tomorrow.

At least all 15 people are safe here in Kyoto, Japan.