Visiting Japan in late May 2019.
I'll be spending a few days in Tokyo at the end but I have total freedom for the rest of the trip.
Was thinking of maybe heading up to Sapporo to see if I can catch the last of the blossom and maybe south to Osaka, Himeji, Hiroshima.
During my only other trip to Japan a few years ago I ate in M* most nights in Tokyo and Kyoto, so I'm interested to explore a few options outside.
I can make a special trip if necessary
There are a few options discussed above, but I thought a focused question might gather a more coherent set of recommendations from you knowledgeable crew.