Woke up at 4:00 AM to capture the cherry blossom ambiance at its peak in Kyoto, Japan

Some say, "Kyoto is in Japan, but the real Japan is in Kyoto." There are many cherry blossoms in Japan, either in clusters or a particularly large one in a courtyard setting. Among them, the most famous is the century-old cherry blossom tree at Sanneizaka in Kyoto. To shoot the blue hour cherry blossom scene, one must rise early; wake up at 4 AM and arrive by 5 AM. There are hardly any people taking photos at that time, most are around Yasaka Pagoda. The beauty is visible to the naked eye. By 6 AM, it starts to get crowded and by 6:30, it's packed. (Kyoto is really competitive! 😭 Many people might not even be awake by 6:30!) If you plan to come for sunset, you should arrive early. - 📍Location: Ninenzaka and Sanneizaka, Higashiyama Ward, Kyoto City, 2 Chome Kiyomizu 🎫Admission: Free Photography date: April 5, 2024 (Currently in full bloom, viewing period is 2 weeks) 🚗Transportation: Navigate to 'Myohoyanotei', take bus routes 202, 206, or 207 to Kiyomizu-michi Station. ‼️Recommended route: Ninenzaka and Sanneizaka ➡️ Yasaka Pagoda ➡️ Kiyomizu-dera ➡️ Hanamikoji ➡️ Yasaka Shrine - ◽️Tips: ☑️ Ninenzaka and Sanneizaka, Yasaka Pagoda, and Kiyomizu-dera are unique street views of Kyoto. The shops along the street and the visitors in kimonos make you feel as if you've traveled back to the shogunate era. ☑️ The sightseeing route I recommend is convenient, and if you want to see cherry blossoms, you can also visit Kyoto Imperial Palace and Kamo River, which are both in full bloom right now. ☑️Kyoto's cherry blossom season is very crowded, so it's advised to start early and return early for a better experience. -