Cruise lines operate on a strict schedule and ship captains have no qualms about sailing away without passengers that haven’t embarked at the appointed time. In fact, YouTube is full of videos of people running down the pier while the ship is pulling away. But, I digress…
Arriving in Tokyo a full day and a half prior to the beginning of our cruise on the MS Westerdam, gave us a cushion for embarkation in case of an airline delay as well as an opportunity to spend a full day sightseeing and to pick up a few geocaches.
We hired a guide – Yusiro – to take us to Sensō-ji, a Buddhist temple built in 645 CE. We also asked him to teach us how to use Japan’s public transit systems and where to look for a quick and easy lunch. While we were traveling in and around Tokyo, he told us that the cherry trees were at their peak bloom and we should go today if we want to see them.
It was a day to keep the camera in the pack due to the heavy rains. Cell phone pics were the best we could do. Rain poured down all day, but it didn’t stop any one from enjoying this special sight.
Travels with RK Caton 