April is typically a time for celebration in Japan, although this year the mood is much more somber than usual. Regardless, the cherries still bloom and respect for their beauty is paid.
Lunch break walking along the Meguro River in front of the office during the peak of the bloom
Sakura (cherry) promenade
Yozakura = Night cherry viewing
Senzoku-Ike - 4 stations from our house. Aya and I packed a picnic dinner and enjoyed some time under the cherries. It was sad to see this area so deserted at this time of the year - typically there would be people in every square inch picnicing and enjoying the cherries - but we also have to appreciate the once in a lifetime ability to enjoy these cherries in full bloom in such solitude, as we will never be able to again.
The cherries along the Meguro river in front of the Miyakoda's house
The view from the Miyakoda's living room
Gotenyama - the hillside behind the Miyakoda's house. This area is famous for its cherries, and once served as an imperial viewing grounds.
Hotel and reception garden
View of the cherries along the Meguro river from Kinoto & Yuri's patio
Panorama from the Miyakoda's patio
Cherry petals on the river viewed from the office
Almost as beautiful as when they are on the trees 
