March started off with a nice walk around Shoin Jinja-mae. Situated on the Setagaya line, if you’re lucky you might just catch one of the trains that looks like a cat! 
Hello! 
It had been a few years since we were in this neighbourhood, but one thing we distinctly remembered were these amazing croquettes, so we made sure to go and grab a few. 
They have so many different types! Mrs. IKIMASHO got one with beetroot, while mine was lamb and cumin. 
Shoin Jinja-mae has a nice vibe… 
And a nice temple 
Walking the streets of Shoin Jinja-mae 
Spring in Tokyo. Beautiful colours when the day is starting… 
And ending. 
March means sakura – and this year the cherry blossoms bloomed early, taking everyone by surprise. It meant that we only really had a week to fully enjoy them. 
People took to the parks to laze in the spring sun 
Even this little guy got involved 
As the sun rises on a new day, the petals begin to glow. 
Cherry blossoms by the river… 
In the streets… 
And seemingly growing from every crevice 
Sakura season always feels like a fresh start in Japan. January 1st obviously marks the start of the new year – but for me, April is when the warm weather comes and the year fully begins. 
I liked this tree. A huge trunk, but then just a few branches, all filled with petals. 
Of course, it wasn’t just pinks on offer. The temples were starting to show signs of green… 
And some houses looked like technicolor masterpieces. 
As the clouds rumbled overhead, these ‘roadwork frogs’ got ready to splash in the rain. 
Umbrellas drying at the temple after the rain 
We enjoyed a few days up in Tochigi, staying in a sleepy town called Nakagawa-machi. 
Then again, Tokyo can offer the same vibe if you know where to find it. 
Hustle and bustle in the backstreets 
This little truck was selling oranges 
While this shop was selling them too – but inside sandwiches! Fruit sandwiches are a dessert treat in Japan, filled with whipped cream. 
A rainbow in the suburbs 
Similar colors downtown in Shinjuku… 
And even on our plates. 
I may not always know where I’m going, but I know I’ll get there in the end. 
St Patrick’s Day, Tokyo style! Mrs IKIMASHO proud to have an Irish connection 🙂
I hope you all had a fun March and are keeping well. I started a new job role, so have been extremely busy, but I’m hoping things begin to calm down from now.
Stay safe and thanks always for reading!
Justin / IKIMASHO
IKIMASHO! 
Nice pics as always 🙂 Good luck with the new job role
Beautiful photos! Thanks for sharing! Good luck with the new role!
Great photos! I particularly love the sunset one.