Apologies c/o for taking so long to log this. Was without my computer for a while. But I hear you were filled in on the story. Figured better get this TB moving. Will try and see if I can get him 'on mission' for you.
I spent a month in Japan in 1989 for a World Bonsai Convention. Then travelling the country from the North to the South visiting people, gardens, bonsai collections in private hands, temples and whatever interesting place was presented. I'd wanted to go to Japan since I was a wee girl and it surpassed my extremely high expectations!!! As a woman... and President of my bonsai club I was considered very unusual and magazines and newspapers were lined up to interview me. It was quite the experience. lol
I had the great privilege of being in Kyoto on the full moon with the cherry blossoms in full bloom. Kyoto is reported to have the biggest concentration of cherry trees in the world and seeing all the red ones was an absolute delight.
My Japanese friends invited me to the traditional bento (lunch box) picnic in a local park under the full moon. The park is dedicated to cherry trees of endless variety.
We brought the requisite bento's, saki, all kinds of edible delights. My friends supplied the blankets, pillows etc.
We stayed up all night under the full moon brightness, telling stories, laughing, drinking and eating while blossom petals wafted down like downy coloured snow on us and all around covering the ground. It was magical. The night air was filled with the laughter and happy voices of all the others doing the same. It was the kind of experience that makes you feel Life is complete. lol Arrived back at the hotel at about 7 a.m. feeling exultant, satisfied and not tired at all, but enervated.
I met so many terrific people and did so many long dreamed of activities that I can feast for the rest of my life on the memories.
Best wishes this TB arrives safely there for you! Working on it.