Hi Maria,

In 2018, Sakura were still in full bloom by the 1st April. That day I went to Banpaku Koen (north of Osaka) and the sight was still splendid. However, it didn’t last much longer (a couple or three days more). In the end, it will come down to the year (whether it’s a cold or a hot year). In Osaka, the sakura usually bloom between…

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I had a large suitcase, but as I had my own apartment in Osaka, when I traveled within Japan I left it there. I only moved the suitcase from KIX airport to the apartment, so I never brought it to the Shinkansen. 

Thanks for the info, Josh! I’m really considering to come for the Paralympics, so I’ll take it in mind. I miss my time there, so it won’t be long till you see me again : )

Yes, PASMO also works in Osaka : )

As Josh said, I remember it being around 10.000 yen per way. Aside from the JR pass, you should check getting an IC card for local trains, metro rides and buses all around Japan. In the Kansai area the IC card is called ICOCA. You can get it from any major JR station or airport at the Midori Madoguchi (the green ticket window). This card… Read more