One of my favorite books was the 1975 historical novel – Shogun by James Clavell (1921-1994). The book details the dawn of the Edo Period (1603-1868) but more importantly provides a semi-factual account of the gradual influx of Western influence. Since reading the book, I have read other books on Japan and years ago had a year-long course in Japanese. Since then – I have wanted to visit the Land of the Rising Sun. Fast forward to April 2025. . . . .

Donna and I just completed a 12 day Regent cruise around Japan (with one day in Korea). We flew in to Tokyo and spent 3 days on a “pre-cruise” tour. We visited temples, shrines and gardens. Once on board the ship – each day was a new area and tours of gardens, temples and shrines. Sometimes it was shrines, gardens and temples. . . . .

Seriously folks, our trip to Japan was an amazing foray around Nippon. Apart from the jet lag, we were up and at ’em every morning – hopping on a bus and heading off to see the sites in new ports of call. Years ago I learned to sing the iconic 1963 hit “Sukiyaki” by Kyu Sakamoto – in Japanese. I would occasionally warble “Sukiyaki” only to find surprised guides and locals joining in to sing. Maybe I have a future on “Japan’s Got Talent”. . . . .

The most memorable part of the trip was going to Hiroshima – and actually spending time at “ground zero” of that fateful August day in 1945. We visited the Peace Memorial Park and saw the Atomic Bomb (Genbaku) Dome – the only structure left standing where the bomb fell (which actually detonated at an altitude of about 2,000 feet). Nagasaki also provided a somber memorial. Finally – we went to the Chiran Peace Museum — a legacy to the 3,800 young men who died as Kamikaze pilots. Photos of most adorn the walls along with display cases with original letters home – to their mothers – expressing their sadness at leaving them.

All in all, a great trip. What would I do differently? I would spend a few more days in Tokyo to arrange a private guide or two. I would take the “bullet train” to Kyoto and I would check out the subway system. Maybe next time. . . .