Cherry blossom: April 2, 2011

Three weeks have passed after the earthquake and tsunami disaster. The accident at Fukushima nuclear plant is still serious and quake-hit people are still spending hard time in Tohoku area.

Tokyo has been quieter. There have been fewer people in the streets, shops and restaurants (both in weekdays and weekend).

This is partly because of rolling blackouts and fewer-than-usual operation of trains. But there are other reasons, too.

People have had a fear that they might be exposed to radiations from Fukushima nuclear plant (about 200 km from Tokyo).

People have also shared a feeling that they should refrain from having fun ("it is not time to have fun").

I have refrained from having long-distance walks in last three weeks.

Season has changed in the meantime.


Cherry blossom started in Tokyo.

I visited Baji Park (Equestrian Park) and Kinuta Park, both are in Setagaya ward in west Tokyo) to see cherry blossom and other flowers. The blossom just started.

Swans were swimming in a pond, which was surrounded by cherry trees,  in Baji Park. I also dound a halcyon around a pond.

Number of people were enjoying picnic under the cherry trees. The number was fewer than usual and it seemed quieter than usual. People were talking about the quake and tsunami hire and there.






Map: Baji Park
Map: Kinuta Park