This trip report will cover one day of independent sightseeing and then 6 days with an Inspiring Vacations tour. This took place during peak tourist season (cherry blossoms).
Day 1: I targeted my two top sights in Tokyo for my day of independent sightseeing. First was Team Labs Planet, Tokyo, which did not disappoint! It used interactive art and lights to explore several different types of installations using all the senses. It is very hard to try to explain this without the use of pictures. At one point, participants wade through foot deep water in a pool while light displays change what objects are swimming in the water around you. Another location invites participants to draw and color fantastic animals which integrate into animations across the walls. Well worth going to, but plan ahead as tickets sell out quickly. Lunch in the onsite cafe was delicious.
My second goal was the park that used to be part of the grounds of the Imperial Palace. I exited Tokyo Station and began to walk toward the park. I soon noticed that a very large crowd of people were walking the same direction. I was absorbed into the crowd and simply followed them. I was a bit surprised to arrive at a large white tent set up in a parking lot running about 20 security lines. I suddenly worried that I had joined the crowd for a concert or something. A quick check with others waiting in line,using Google Translate,assured me that they were here for Imperial Gardens and cherry blossoms. Through a bag check and metal detector, I was a bit shocked at how seriously they took park security. I was also surprised just how many of Tokyo’s citizens were going to the park. Through a big gate with even more security and I finally realized I had not entered the park, but the actual grounds of the Imperial Palace! A visitor helper labeled English explained to me that the palace opens its grounds on a limited basis for 9 days each spring to allow the public to enjoy its cherry trees. So fun to join with others in walking along the grounds. I love it when you get these unexpected treats when traveling. I did go to the park afterwards. Public transport works great in Tokyo.
Day 2- I joined my tour group in the lobby and boarded the bus headed south. Our tour guide introduced himself on the bus and gave an overview of the day. We visited Oishi Park where we had a non view of Mt Fuji was well hidden by clouds and a light snow shower. Bus after bus pulled into the parking lot for the non view and I had my first realization that I was officially on the main tourist circuit. Next stop was Oshino Village and its springs.The water is pure after filtering through lava and many interesting street food stalls are set up making it a good lunch stop. Our fellow tour buses joined us there. The Grand Hotel Hamamatsu was our hotel for the evening. Only breakfasts included on this tour so everyone just sort did their own thing.
Day 3: On to Osaka with a stop at Nagoya Castle and Shogun’s house and then a highway service center for lunch. Japan’s service centers are amazing. They always have plenty of clean restrooms, food choices and shopping. When we arrived in Osaka, we went to explore the Dotombori area with its large interesting signs and restaurants. Our hotel was the City Route Hotel.
Day 4- Off to Kyoto to visit the bamboo forest, the Golden Pavillion, the old neighborhood of Hanami-Kiki, and Senbon Tori. A full day. Full of sights, full of crowds, full of cherry blossoms, and full of fun. My tour companions were very interesting to travel with and by now we were getting to know each other. Back to Osaka for the evening.