It has been 5 years since I last posted in HIVE and I must say that I miss writing blogs. So many things happened in the past 5 years. There were ups and downs but the fun thing is I got to travel in different places. Going back in HIVE means getting to share with you my travel (and a lot more) experiences!
I was thinking of a way on how to get back to writing and thought that maybe I can start with the most recent and maybe the biggest decision I've made, that is living in Japan.
I am in Japan to pursue my PhD degree at Osaka University. As some of you know, I was pursuing my master's in meteorology the last time I posted. I finished my MSc in 2019 and continued my research career. Fortunately, I was given the chance to enroll in Osaka University for PhD under the Japanese government scholarship.
I came to Osaka, Japan last April 3, 2023. I was lucky to still be able to see cherry blossoms that time. Cherry blossoms in Osaka usually start to bloom by the latter weeks of March until first to second week of April.
In search for a scenic place to take sakura (japanese word for cherry blossom) pictures, I went to Expocity which is one station away from my residence. Look how gorgeous cherry blossoms were during that time, together with the Osaka wheel - the largest ferris wheel in Japan!
Cherry blossoms are really pretty in person. Personally, I felt relaxed just looking at them as they fall down every time the wind blows. There are also snacks made with sakura and they are definitely a must try during the spring season.
In my first month in Osaka, Japan, I also celebrated my birthday. It was my first time spending my birthday away from home and my family (I already miss the Philippines). Anyways, it rained during my birthday but I still went out to celebrate at Dotonbori. Dotonbori is one of the tourist places in Osaka, popular for its vast options of luscious food and colorful night lights. It was pure bliss to finally see the iconic Glico man and of course the very busy streets of Dotonbori. Due to the amount of people on a weekend, plus the rain, I wasn't able to try okonomiyaki or takoyaki at Dotonbori. But will definitely go back there soon!
To cap off this first entry in five years, let me share with you a snap of the Osaka castle. The Osaka castle was built in 1580s and was considered the largest castle in Japan. This historical castle is one of the famous tourist spots in Japan. It served as a stronghold during the war in sixteenth century. Sightseeing in Osaka castle is free so when you visit Japan, you must definitely add it in your itinerary!
This has been a fun first entry in many years. I will definitely post more of my travels soon and hopefully bring you guys to the places I have been and will be visiting in the future.