Osaka was the final Japanese city of my tour in 2024/25. I arrived on a cold and rainy day at the tail end of winter but was greeted with the first cherry blossoms of the 2025 season. This was my first sighting of cherry blossoms anywhere in Japan because further north in Tokyo, it was too cold for them. This elegant and very beautiful piece was created in the cherry blossom Gardens as tourists with a beautiful clear umbrellas walked past taking many photos.

Osaka Castle stands proudly as one of Japan’s most famous historical landmarks. Surrounded by moats, stone walls, and beautiful gardens, the castle reflects traditional Japanese architecture and rich samurai history. During spring, cherry blossoms enhance its beauty, attracting visitors from around the world to admire its culture, history, and scenic surroundings.