Osaka

Tokyo

Our first stop on the trip was Tokyo, specifically the Ueno area. Unfortunately, it was quite rainy for the first few days so I didn’t explore as much as I would have liked. However, what I saw of Tokyo was amazing and I cannot wait to go back. Next time I would like to see Shibuya and Shinjuku.

Joetsu (and surrounding area)

From Tokyo, we took a shinkansen to Joetsu in the Niigata prefecture. My wife has family that lives in the area.

It was much more rural than Tokyo and was very beautiful. The cherry blossoms had just bloomed.

From Joetsu, we again caught the train to Osaka were we met more of the family. We rented a house near the Morinomiya station so exploring the city was super easy.

The weather was lovely, and we were able to explore a few different areas in the city. A highlight was Dotonbori, the canal side district pictured below.

This picture below is part of the moat surrounding Osaka castle. Really cool how the centuries old stonework is nestled in amongst the modern architecture above.

Kyoto (and surrounding area)

While family members watched our kid, my wife and I snuck into the mountains outside Kyoto. We stayed at a lovely ryokan. The dinner provided was incredible and they kindly accommodated my vegetarian ways.

Nara

We made a quick trip from Osaka to visit Nara Park. The park is filled with friendly deer! Just be careful not to flash your crackers, otherwise the dear will get extra friendly.