While these amazing shows of human and technological advances are stunning and worth the visit, there is so much more to this country. And t

Cherry blossoms, known as sakura, are a sure sign of spring. Here in Japan, they are a national treasure and everyone looks forward to hanami, an annual tradition of picnicking in the park under the blossoms. I have been so lucky to be in country the last two springs when the blooms hit peak. The two areas with the largest concentration of cherry trees that are close to me are Hirosaki Castle Park, Hirosaki and Tenshochi Park, Kitakami. Now, both Kitakami and Hirosaki bloom w