(like VIP)

In the beautiful city of Kyoto there is a temple among a great many called Ginkakuji (the Silver Temple). It's not as flashy as Kinkakuji (the Golden Temple), but it's understated and so all the cooler, many people like myself will argue. It lies on the mountainside on the north end of the Philosopher's Walk. The hike uphill is made easier by the distraction of sweets and treats and souvenirs of all varieties, and the delicious smell of roasting tea and rice cakes...
Once inside the Temple grounds, as this photo demonstrates, you will find that there exists some Very Important Moss.
Enough said?

crowds, cameras, and pale pink blooms

The Japanese, more concerned with recording the moment than being in it at times like this, are mad for cherry blossoms. It's an actual madness, I'm convinced. That said, appreciation for nature and remembering to stop and smell the er, blossoms is admirable. Over the first 3 weeks in April, all ages and all manner of people took part in Hanami (cherry blossom viewing parties) that require a lot of eating and drinking under the impossibly pink and fluffy trees.
This photo was also taken at the Osaka Mint. There were a ridiculous amount of people.

night at the mint

During one week every year, the Osaka Mint opens its electrified and barbed-wire gates to allow the public to enter and enjoy the hundreds of stunning cherry blossom trees, the riverside, and countless stalls selling usual festival foods and drinks, (such as octopus tentacle on a stick and alcohol). Going at night is really something because you get to see the place all aglow with lights and lanterns and cell phones. Cherry blossom viewing is a serious, serious thing here.