“Sherman, set the WABAC Machine for Kyoto, Japan in 2017!“
As the 2026 cherry blossom season winds down, we thought that it would be a great time to dig into the photo archives and show previously unposted images from our first trip to Japan, “wayback” in 2017. At the time, photos were only posted to our Facebook Page. ChatGPT helped us expand our Facebook image posts into a trip report for our week in Japan. (It’s below the photos.) Hopefully, we’ll soon get around to getting our full notes for Japan into digital form!
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Cherry Blossom Season in Kyoto, Nara & Himeji (April 2017) – A Spring Japan Travel Report
Spring in Japan is synonymous with one experience: cherry blossoms in full bloom. Our early April 2017 journey through Kyoto, Nara, and Himeji delivered exactly that—along with historic temples, iconic castles, and a few surprises from the weather.
April 6-7, 2017 – Hanami in Kyoto: Cherry Blossoms Take Centre Stage
Our trip began in Kyoto at the peak of hanami—Japan’s beloved blossom viewing tradition. Everywhere we turned, delicate pink petals framed temples, lined canals, and drifted softly through the air. Parks and riverbanks were alive with locals and visitors enjoying picnics beneath the blossoms, celebrating a fleeting season that feels almost magical. Kyoto in sakura (cherry blossom viewing) season is simply lovely; the harmony between nature and centuries-old architecture makes it one of the best places in the world to experience cherry blossoms.
April 8, 2017 – Exploring Kyoto Temples (Between Showers)
We spent the next few days wandering through Kyoto’s famous temples and shrines, admiring both culture and blossoms. While the cherry trees were at their peak, the weather didn’t always cooperate. Periods of steady rain meant dodging puddles and carrying umbrellas—but even in the drizzle, Kyoto retained its charm. While the rain washed the blossoms from the trees, it also meant petals clinging to wet stone paths, mist hanging over temple roofs, and fewer crowds.
April 9, 2017 – Castle and Palace Day in Kyoto
Today was dedicated to Kyoto’s historic architecture—castles and imperial residences that showcase Japan’s feudal and imperial past. Grand gates, intricate woodwork, and expansive gardens were highlights. The contrast between structured palace grounds and the softness of blooming cherry trees made for striking scenery—and some of the best photo opportunities of the trip.
April 10, 2017 – A Chilly Spring Day in Nara
A short train ride brought us to Nara, Japan’s first capital and home to some of the country’s oldest temples. While the setting was stunning—especially with cherry blossoms scattered across the parks—the weather took a turn. It was unexpectedly cold for spring, making it a day for layers and warm drinks. Still, Nara’s charm shines through in any weather. However, we will admit that we retreated from the chilly weather to go saki tasting; that takes the chill off!
April 11, 2017 – Himeji Castle and Unforgettable Blossoms
Our final excursion was a train trip to Himeji Castle—widely considered Japan’s most beautiful and best-preserved castle. The journey was well worth it. The contrast of white castle walls against pink blossoms created a picture-perfect scene—possibly the best sakura of the entire trip.
This year (2026), we were at home in Vancouver for cherry blossom season. Of course Kyoto is one of the famous cities for cherry blossoms mentioned in the TA article “13 places to see cherry blossoms around the world“, but Vancouver is in there too! There are even blossoms out in the suburbs at our local park:
