Since Tokyo's Covid numbers have been in the single and double digits since October, we decided it was safe to go for a visit. We talked about what our tolerance was, and finally decided that we would ride the Shinkansen from Tokyo to Osaka, but rent a car to drive around Osaka. This was the first time since moving here that we have rented a car in Osaka, allowing us to go much further in our exploration than on previous trips.
The Shinkansen was peaceful. We passed through a bit of snow in the Nagoya region, which made our son very envious. He has been wanting it to snow in Tokyo, but the weather has not granted his wish. The car rental place was located right at Shin-Osaka station, which made for a very easy transfer.
We first drove to the family cemetery, where we paid respects to my husband's family. It is a very important part of Japanese culture to pay respects tho those that have passed. While at the cemetery, we wash the headstone, place fresh flowers in vases built into the headstone, light candles and incense, as well as say prayers. Since several family members are entombed within one headstone, the honoring of those passed is done all at once.
We then drove to our beloved Miwa Jinja, our favorite shrine in Japan.
We wrapped up the day with a family dinner with relatives we have not seen for a very long time.
We stayed at an amazing hotel overlooking Osaka Castle. Although we were there to only sleep and eat breakfast, it was a wonderful experience as Osaka Castle is an amazing site to behold. We decided that the only way to improve our experience there would be to go when the cherry or plum trees are blooming, as the gardens surrounding the castle are filled with blossoms at that time.
To be continued...
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