Spring is a very popular time for tourists to come to Japan because of the appeal of the transcendent sakura or cherry blossoms.

TOKYO – It has been almost 40 years since Kidlat Tahimik (born Eric de Guia) started filming “Balikbayan #1: Memories of Overdevelopment Redux 1,” about Enrique de Malacca, slave of Magellan, the first man (a Filipino in Kidlat’s fancy) to circumnavigate the world.

Plum or ume blossoms signal the arrival of spring in Japan. From early February to late March, this special flower with its white, pink and red colors, flourish and blanket plum trees across the country providing a breathtaking view for local and foreign tourists alike.

TOKYO – Actress Rosa Salazar is currently in the Japanese capital to promote the sci-fi flick “Alita: Battle Angel.”