After an incredible extended stay in Tokyo, my dad and I
checked out of the Hyatt Regency Tokyo and began our long journey aboard the
Shinkansen (Japanese bullet train) to Fukuoka with stops in Nagoya and Kobe.
For those unfamiliar with the Japan Rail Pass, the pass
grants pass holders unlimited train travel on Japan Railway lines for one to
three weeks (depending on the type of pass).
As we knew this would probably be the only time my Dad would
ever get the chance to see the cherry blossoms in Japan, we quickly drew up a
crazy train journey zig-zagging across central and southern Japan.
The Shinkansen trains are notoriously punctual, clean, and
comfortable, if not a little tight width wise. If you’re traveling in twos, I’d
highly advise arriving early and reserving seats ending with “D” & “E,”
rather than risk getting stuck with a stranger on the right side of the train.
We had just two and half hours to explore the city and
headed straight to Nagoya Castle.
Along the way, we spotted numerous types of Sakura trees in
full bloom.
The castle grounds were stunning; with the row of trees next
to the Taxi line among the most spectacular blooms I’d seen yet.
Unfortunately, the castle itself was a bit of a
disappointment, being completely renovated with modern conveniences such as
elevators, and lacks the traditional “feel” compared to other castles such as
the one in Himeji.
However, the views of the Sakura trees from above made the
500 yen entrance fee palatable, but I’d be hesitant recommending anyone coming
here during the regular season.
After leisurely strolling around, we sprinted back to the
Shinkansen station and headed to Kobe, snacking on some Sakura donuts.
