Chasing Cherry Blossoms in Japan: A Dream Come True!

Hey everyone!

For years, we've been obsessed with the idea of seeing cherry blossoms in Japan. Pictures just don't do them justice – the delicate blooms, the vibrant colors, the whole atmosphere...it all seemed so magical. Well, this year we finally made that dream a reality, and let us tell you, it was even more incredible than we ever imagined!

We landed in Tokyo in the dates which supposedly coincides with the published dates of the peak bloom season for many areas as per Japan weather bulletin. Despite the sudden weather change the city was still buzzing with excitement. People were everywhere, strolling under the blossoming trees, having picnics in parks, and snapping photos. The air was filled with a soft, sweet fragrance, and the whole scene felt like something out of a movie.

Our first stop was Ueno Park, a sprawling oasis in the heart of Tokyo. The Somei Yoshino cherry trees, the most common variety, were just starting to bloom because the weather got messed up and it had just snowed the other day so the early blooming cherry blossom were not in it's full glory yet. Their pale pink blossoms formed a canopy overhead, creating a tunnel of delicate beauty. I wandered through the park, mesmerized by the sights and sounds – the chattering crowds, the fluttering petals, the occasional burst of laughter. It was pure joy.

Over the next few days, we ventured to other iconic cherry blossom spots. We marveled at the weeping cherry trees in Nakai. The sole tree we saw has its branches cascading down like a waterfall but the pink Sakura is just starting to bloom. Not yet in it's full glory.

While In Araiyukushi temple in Nakano, the towering stalks of the delicate cherry blossoms were just starting to bloom too. Every location offered a unique perspective on this fleeting spectacle of nature. How we wish the original Sakura bulletin were on schedule. Then, it would have been perfect!

But it wasn't just about the aesthetics. Cherry blossoms in Japan are more than just beautiful flowers; they're a cultural touchstone. The tradition of Hanami, or cherry blossom viewing, is a celebration of spring, renewal, and the impermanence of life. Picnicking under the trees with friends and family, enjoying the beauty of the moment – it's a reminder to slow down and appreciate the simple things.

This trip was an unforgettable experience despite the Sakura bloom delay It wasn't just about ticking something off my bucket list; it was about immersing myself in a different culture and appreciating the beauty of nature. If you've ever dreamed of seeing cherry blossoms in Japan, I say do it!  It's truly a magical experience. And it would be better if all of the Sakura trees were in full bloom. I hope the Japan weather bureau would be more accurate next time around. I wish we would get a FREE all-expenses paid trip to Japan next year when all of the cherry trees is in full bloom!

Do you have any questions about my trip? Have you ever seen cherry blossoms in bloom? Share your experiences in the comments below!

Royal Wax Works: An (Almost) Regal Encounter in Tokyo!

Tokyo isn't exactly known for its palaces and pomp, but on a recent trip, I stumbled upon a touch of British royalty – well, almost! Let me tell you about my hilarious (and slightly surreal) encounter with the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge...in wax form, of course!

Nestled in the heart of Odaiba, Madame Tussauds Tokyo is a haven for pop culture and historical figures. As I wandered through the museum, I rounded a corner and came face-to-face (or should I say face-to-wax?) with Prince William and Kate Middleton.

Now, I'm not gonna lie – the detail on these figures is incredible. From Kate's perfectly styled hair to William's sharp suit, Madame Tussauds' artists did an amazing job capturing their essence. For a moment, I almost felt a royal aura!

Of course, the experience wouldn't be complete without the obligatory photo op. I struck my best regal pose (think afternoon tea with the Queen level of elegance) and snapped a picture with the future King and Queen (of wax, that is).

This "meeting" was a fun and unexpected highlight of my Tokyo trip. It's a reminder that a little bit of whimsy and a dash of imagination can turn any museum visit into an (almost) royal adventure.

Have you ever had a close encounter with a wax figure? Share your stories in the comments below!

ODAIBA, TOKYO JAPAN: Happiness at Madame Tussauds

OMG, guys! I just had the most fun-filled day at Madame Tussauds Tokyo, and I NEED to share it with all you fellow fangirls and fanboys out there!

First off, let me just say: childhood dreams DO come true!

Remember the era when we have posters of our idols on our wall growing up? Yeah, well, I practically got to hang out with them all today!

I finally meet Jackie Chan face to face! He happens to be my childhood idol because of his funny antics in his martial arts movies.

I remember going to his gym in Hong Kong whenever we went on vacation there. My Papa Vito is such a good dad because he would accompany me to Jackie Chan's gym and inquire if Jackie was there. I was dreaming of having a snapshot or even to get a glimpse of him. Unfortunately, he was so busy and was always out! Finally, in Tokyo Japan we did some high kicks together (well, I attempted some, haha).

Next off is Michael Jackson! I moonwalked right next to him (okay, maybe just shuffled awkwardly) Ha ha ha 🤣

Then, I got all cultured, posing for Michael Angelo as the Mona Lisa except that I had a giant, cheesy grin.

The music legends were next! Madonna, Beyonce, Lady Gaga - slay queens unite! We belted out some (questionable) karaoke together.

And speaking of legends, Bruce Lee was also there! We exchanged fighting stances (again, mostly me flailing around, but hey, the spirit was there!).

Of course, it wasn't all action and pop stars. I got to channel my inner Audrey Hepburn with a classic pose, then went full-on Captain Jack Sparrow with Johnny Depp. ‍☠️

Even royalty wasn't off limits! I rubbed elbows (virtually, of course) with Prince William and Kate Middleton and even got to sat at the Queen of England's throne!!!

And let's not forget the history makers! Sharing a moment with Nelson Mandela and President Obama was truly humbling.

Finally, I got a little taste of Japan with Prime Minister Abe (hope I didn't bow incorrectly!).

This wasn't just a trip to a wax museum, it was a journey through my fangirl fantasies!

Seriously, if you're ever in Tokyo, Madame Tussauds is a MUST. You might not get to hold an Oscar or become president, but you can definitely get the perfect Instagram pic with your idols!

Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to go rewatch all the movies, listen to all the music, and maybe (just maybe) try to recreate some of those epic poses.

Who are your ultimate fangirl/fanboy icons? Let me know in the comments, and maybe we can fangirl together on the next adventure!