Look down Tokyo Station from KITTE’s Roof Garden

 

Tokyo Station is an architectural masterpiece that combines historical elegance with modern functionality.

Completed in 1914, it was designed by architect Kingo Tatsuno in a European Renaissance style, featuring red brick and a distinctive domed roof. The station building’s symmetrical façade, with its iconic central dome and twin towers, exudes a sense of grandeur and historical significance.

Tokyo Station is a wonderful station that you definitely should visit. The ground level is always bustling with many people and tourists, so if you want to take your time and capture some great photos of the station, the view from the rooftop of the commercial complex KITTE is highly recommended!

 

 

 

The building’s design reflects a blend of Western influences, particularly from the Flemish Renaissance, while also incorporating elements of traditional Japanese design. The structure was originally built to accommodate the growing rail network in Tokyo, becoming a crucial hub for the city’s transportation system. Its role as a central point for the country’s rail network made it a symbol of Japan’s modernization during the early 20th century.

In recent years, the station underwent extensive restoration, which included the restoration of the iconic red brick exterior and the preservation of the original features, ensuring that its historical charm was maintained while modern amenities were added. The station now seamlessly integrates both its historic and contemporary aspects, creating a striking contrast with the surrounding modern skyscrapers of Marunouchi.

 

 

 

See beautiful flowers in Tokyo

 

Showa Kinen Park – Colorful Tulips

 

This government-managed large park representing Japan provides the scenery of seasonal flowers through the year.In Spring, you can see cherry blossoms, rape blossoms, tulips, poppy,moss phiox and nemophila etc.

 

The highlight of Showa Kinen Park is a field of 230 thousand colorful tulips. Tulips are on either bank of running small stream in the park. Flower Festival is took place every year in Spring.

 

 

Admission Fee: Adult/JPY410, 65-year-old and more/JPY210, 15-year-old and less/JPY80
Access: 10-15 mins from Tachikawa station (JR line)

Official website

Jindai Botanical Gardens – Beautiful Rose

Today about 100,000 trees and brushes of 4,500 species are planted in Jindai Botanical Gardens located in Chofu city (near Kichijoji and Mitaka area). The gardens are divided into 30 blocks by plant species, including the rose garden, azalea garden, plum garden, and bush clover gardens.

At the period of Rose Festival in Spring which took place every year around May , you can see a field of 5,200 roses over 400 kinds.

 

 

 

 

Hours: 9:30-17:00 (Entrance is open until 16:00)
*Open at 8:00 during Rose Festival
Admission Fee: Adult/JPY500, 65 year-old ant more/JPY250,12-year-old and more/JPY200, 12-year-old and less/Free
Access: Jindai-shokubutsu-koen-mae bus stop on Odakyu bus for Chofu or Jindaiji from Mitaka or Kichijoji (JR line). Less 30 mins.

Website

Walk sacred appoach in forest – Meiji Jingu Shrine

Step away from the busy city in Tokyo and you can feel the power of nature at Meiji Jingu , one of the largest shrines in the central of Tokyo. When you pass through a torii, gateway to the shrine, a magnificent forest spreads in front of you. A tranquil moment should make you forget you are in Tokyo.

This area is covered by an evergreen forest that consists of 120,000 trees of 365 different species, which were donated by people from all parts of Japan when the shrine was established.

 

 

 

It’s about 10 minutes’ walk to the main shrine.

 

Shinto has no founder, no holy book, and not even the concept of religious conversion, but Shinto values for sincere heart called “Magokoro” and harmony with nature.

 

Don’t forget to make a wish at the main shrine.

Kiyomasa’s Well

On the way to main shrine, there is large iris garden.(Admmission fee: JPY500)  “Kiyomasa’s well” inside the garden is a famous power sport as believed to bring good luck or make wish come true.

 

If you are lucky, you might be able to see Shinto traditional wedding ceremony. It’s really beautiful.

Source meijijingu.or.jp

*Click photo to enlarge

 

 

Meiji Jingu （明治神宮）Info

■ Admission free
■ Hours: From sunrise to sunset

Official website

Cozy time at Imperial Palace Outer Garden

Imperial Palace (皇居,Kōkyo) is the residence of the Emperor of Japan. It was formerly Edo Castle (Edo is the former name of  Tokyo City), it is surrounded by a moat, rich in greenery and trees. Edo Castle was constructed on a vast scale, and was the largest castle ever built in Japan.The remaining stone walls, moats and gates are of great historical importance.Being in the middle of office buildings, it gives the feel of the Samurai age. It is a large park-like area located in the center of Tokyo.

Sakurada Mon Gate

*Click photo to enlarge

Nijubashi (which means ‘Double Bridge’)
Impressive stone bridge is the entrance to the inner palace grounds.

Imperial Palace is surrounded by the twelve scenic moats and Kitanomaru Garden in North, and the Garden Plaza is directly in front of.In the Kokyogaien National Garden Plaza approximately 2,000 Japanese Black Pines (Pinus Thunbergi) are planted in the lawn area.

Source: env.go.jpgardenkokyogaienenglishimgmap_b.gif

 

Imperial Palace Outer Garden(皇居外苑,Kokyogaien National Garden Plaza) together with the Imperial Palace grounds are the single largest green area in center of Tokyo.This area is close to Tokyo station and nice place to have cozy time. Pine trees are beautiful and well maintained. Many people enjoy taking a nap, reading and take a rest here.

 

 

 

 

 

Wadakura Fountain Park

This fountain park located in Garden Plaza was refurbished to celebrate the occasion of the royal wedding of the Crown Prince and Princess. The center fountain has water jet of 8.5m. There is restaurant and rest house with wood terrace inside the park.

 

■  Access for Imperial Palace Outer Garden (Kokyo Gaien National Park)
Nearest station: Nijyubashimae Sta.or Hibiya Sta.
Or approx.5mins walks from Tokyo station

See more on official website of Ministry of the Environment

Ride the Enoden and go to Kamakura’s seaside

Kamakura is an ancient city that has produced its own, original culture. Kamakura began flourishing as a temple town in the 17th century. Blessed with the nature of the ocean and surrounding green hills, Kamakura today attracts a large number of tourists and it’s a perfect day trip from Tokyo. Approx 50 minutes by train from Sinagawa, approx 60 minutes from Tokyo station.

Riding the Enoden (Enoshima Electric Railway) to Kamakura’s seaside is a delightful experience that offers stunning coastal views and a charming journey through traditional Japanese neighborhoods.

    

 

The train runs along the coast, providing glimpses of the ocean and picturesque landscapes, making it a relaxing and scenic way to reach Kamakura’s beautiful beaches and historic sites. Whether you’re enjoying the serene atmosphere or exploring the local culture, the ride is an unforgettable part of the trip.

 

 

 

 

Other Recommended spots in Kamakura.

 

 

Buddha,the symbol of Kamakura.

 

 

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine(鶴岡八幡宮)

Tsurugaoka Hachimangu located at the center of Kamakura establised in 1063. This shrine is famous of giving good luck for job,fight and success in life.

 

Around November, you can see little girls wearing traditional kimono at the Japanese traditional event of ‘Shichi-Go-San’ to celebrate children’s growth.

Komachi Street (小町通り)

Komachi Street in Kamakura is a lively, bustling shopping street famous for its variety of shops, cafes, and traditional Japanese treats. Located near Kamakura Station, it’s a popular spot for both locals and tourists. Visitors can enjoy browsing unique souvenirs, sampling delicious street food like sweet potato snacks and fish cakes, and experiencing the vibrant atmosphere of this charming historical town. It’s the perfect place to explore before heading to Kamakura’s famous temples and beaches.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Temple at base of Tokyo Tower – Zojoji

5 minutes’ walk from Hamamatsu-cho station and you will find one of the largest Buddhist temple Zojoji at the base of Tokyo Tower.

After the start of the Edo(present-day Tokyo) Period when the Tokugawa shogunate ruled Japan, Zojoji became the family temple of the Tokugawa family.  At Zojoji Temple, as many as 3,000 priests and novices always resided as students. Zojoji serves as the main temple of Jodo shu and has endeared itself to the general public as both a grand Buddhist temple typical of the metropolis Tokyo and a hub of religious and cultural activities.

*Click photo to enlarge

Majestic gate named “Sangedatsumon” will welcome you as the front face of the temple. Once you pass under the gate, it is said that you can get delivered  from three  earthly states of mind – greed, anger and stupidity. The gate has been designated by the State as important cultural property.

Big Bell is tolled twice a day – six times each in the early morning and in the evening. It chimes the hours, and also serves to purify one hundred and eight earthly passions (bonno), which lead people astray, through an exhortation, repeated six times a day, to profound equanimity.

 

Zojoji(増上寺） Info

■ Location: Hamamatsucho
■ Admission free
■ Hours: 9:00～17:00

Official website

Free observatories of Tokyo Metropolitan Government

Can you believe it is free ? The observatories are opened for visitors aiming at deepening their understanding and having interest in Tokyo by the Tokyo Metropolitan Government located in Shinjuku. It provides a full view of Tokyo city from 45th floor.

On a clear day, you can see Roppongi hills, Odaiba district, Sinjuku skyscrapers as well as Tokyo Skytree and Tokyo Tower in the far distance. In winter from December to February, you might be able to see Mt.Fuji.

 

 

Observation room is divided into North and South. In South observation room, you can see wider view and take a rest at cafe.In North one, you can find more variety of souvenirs.

 

Skytree is able to be seen from both observation rooms.

 

 

Tokyo Metropolitan Government （都庁）Info

■ Location: Shinjuku
■ Hours: 9:30-23:00
■ Admission free
Official website

Drinking in the daytime with Japanese oldtown ambience

Ameyoko

One of major spot in Ueno area is open-air market as if you feel in Asia. Ameya-Yokochō (アメヤ横丁). Do you know it is the perfect place for drinking in the daytime ?

 

*Click photo to enlarge

At the center of restaurant district lined up under railway viaduct between Ueno station and Okachimachi station, reasonable Japanese pubs are crowded togeher.You will feel drinking in the daytime is common sense here.

 

■ Access: 3 minutes from Ueno Station Shinobazu guchi exit (Under JR viaduct)

 

 

Hoppy Street

At west side of Sensoji’s grounds in Asakua near off‐track betting office, there are a street called “ Hoppy street “ lined with small pubs. If you want to experience the energetic atmosphere of traditional Tokyo district, you should visit here.

“Hoppy” is a low-alcohol beer-flavored beverage. You can drink draft beer,too. It used to be a popular place only among horse racing visitors, but in recent years, it gets attention from domestic and abroad tourists with open atmosphere and reasonable prices.

As it is famous for stewed food like stewed beef, stewed fish and meat and potato stew, the street is also known as “ Stew Street “.

 

■ Access : 5 minutes from Asakusa station(Ginza Line)

Feel nostalgic nightlife at drinking alley -Omoide Yokocho

Shinjuku west exit surrounded by skyscrapers. At one corner in the downtown centers of this district, there is a nostalgic alley called Omoide Yokocho( ‘Drinking Alley of the Memory’) with small lane line up.  The atmosphere evokes the old Showa era.

 

 

Pubs and the bars as many as 30 houses like Yakitori,grilled chicken, Ramen noodles, Chinese food and soba are crowded together along the street with the full length 85m(279ft) . Putting shoulders each other in confined space over alcohol and tasty foods is the best part of Omoide Yokocho.

 

The secret of its popularity is casual ambience and everybody can fell feel to enter to any pubs.

 

Great combination of Yakitori and beer ! Omoide Yokocho is also called “Yakitori Yokoco”

 

 

 

Omoide Yokocho(思い出横丁）Info
■Location: Shinjuku
*1minute walk from Shinjuku station
*You might want to go to restroom in advance as there is only one old restroom
Official website

Feel the breeze from Tokyo Bay -Tokyo Cruise

Let’s ride on Water Bus “Himiko””Hotaluna” designed like spaceship, and look at Tokyo city while feeling the breeze crossing a surface of the water.

 

 

Ship connects boarding points in Asakusa, Daiba,Hamarikyu,Toyosu and cruises in Sumidagawa River and Tokyo Bay.In Sumidagawa River cruise, passing through many bridges is also attractive point. Cruise between Asakusa-Daiba in approximately 50-60 minutes while looking at Rainbow Bridge, Tokyo Tower,Tokyo Sky tree and skyscrapers over the wave.

 

 

Source: suijobus.co.jp

 

In the ship which is overall glassed, you can enjoy the Tokyo panorama view from 0 meters of sea level at 360 any angle.

The feature of “Hotaluna”is having outside deck where you can enjoy wonderful scenery without windows.

※ Caution: Open deck is available for route other than Asakusa -Hinode Pier in Sumidagawa Line. Whether deck is open or not is depends on captain’s judgement on that day.

 

Source: gnavi.co.jp

Night cruise is also fantastic.

Source: gnavi.co.jp

 

■ Tokyo Cruise official website
Boarding point, crusing route, time schedule and fares info are available.
You can buy ticket at boarding point or reserve in advance through website.

■ Click here to see “Hotaluna” Boarding Info
Boarding Point：Asakusa, Hinode Pier, Odaiba Seaside Park

■ Click here to see “Himiko” Info

Surrounded by Baby Blue Eye Flowers, Blue Sky and Ocean

The largest field of baby blue eyes (Nemophila) flowers named“Miharashi no Oka ”(Hill of overlook) is in Hitachi Seaside Park located in Hitachinaka, Ibaraki, Japan, that features a sea of 4.5 million baby blue eyes. The sea on sky blue flowers blooms once annually around from late April to mid May.

 

A sea of lapis lazuli blue as you can see !

*Click photo to enlarge

 

The scenery that baby blue eyes(Nemophila) go on is introduced as “ Superb landscape of Blue” and “ Hill connecting with Sky” on the medias, which Japan are able to be proud to the world as one of superb landscape in Japan. Baby blue eyes field surrounded by blue sky on the hilltop is just like a dream. The hilltop also looks out on the Pacific Ocean.

 

The word “Nemophila” derive from Greek “Nemos (small forest)” and “love” as they inhabit near forest. Japanese name is “Arabesque of lapis lazuli blue”.

The language of baby blue eyes is “Pretty” “Pure” “Success anywhere” etc.

 

Planning to see the cherry blossoms in Japan is difficult because the period is unexpected and short, but it may be easier to plan on visiting to see baby blue eyes. Once baby blue eyes bloom, their color become lighter in color over time, so you might want to check the best season in advance.

Hitachi Seaside Park also features vast flower gardens including many varieties of Tulips, Narcissuse, Rapessed, Poppy, Rose and Lavender through a year. Click here to see Annual flower calendar of the park.
Baby blue eyes (Nemophila)

■ Place: Miharashi No Oka
■ Bloom period: Late April to Mid May

Hitachi Seaside Park Information
Official website

 

Magical world Tokyo Disney Resort

Disney Land is the place of Magic Kingdom where everybody is loved, but Tokyo Disney Resort is beyond just amusement park.

“Tokyo Disney Resort”is generic name of combination, “Tokyo Disney Land” and “Tokyo Disney Sea”.FEEL TOKYO wondered if visitor from abroad can really enjoy Tokyo Disney Resort.If you are equal to the long waiting time (sometimes truly unbelievable), the answer is YES.

       

Due to the Japanese culture where people give a lot of importance to cleaning oneself and the surroundings, the park is perfectly maintenanced and it’s hard to find trash. All staff gives you smile and kindness with their full hospitality. You must feel the essence of Japanese culture there.

To avoid crowd as much as possible, you might want to check crowd calender in advance and decide the date to visit.There is no official crowd calender announced by Tokyo Disney Resort,but you can find some useful link on internet.Tokyo Disney Resort is always crowd regardless of weekday (why people do not go to school or work on  weekday !?), but through a year, it tends to most crowd in March for spring vacation of student in Japan and Easter event, Halloween season which cosplayers are gathered and Christmas season for dating couples. On the other hand, January is said not crowed so much due to the examination period for students in Japan.

Crowed Calender of DISNEYREAL

What the special of Tokyo Disney Resort

– It’s really magical space. People visiting there look exciting and very happy! The ambience of Disney is created by people.

– The largest class in the world !

– There is original attraction which is not seen in overseas Disney.Monster s Ink (shooting attraction) ,Honey Hunt of Poo (looking around Poo world), Jangle Cruise (cruising on boat along the river inside the park)

– Disney with the theme focusing on “Marine” is only Tokyo Disney Sea in the world !

– Mickey and character shape silhouette is hidden inside park

– Flavored popcorn are sold at many places. Caramel flavor and soy sauce flavor etc.
– You find lots of teenagers enjoy matching fashion coordination.

 

Even if we do not spare much time to secure sitting place for parade, we can enjoy story-telling project mapping reflecting on central Cinderella castle.

 

 

■ Location: Maihama (20 mins from Tokyo station)

To the World of Ghibli – Ghibli Museum

Film Ghibli is one of Japanese representative animation produced by Hayao Miyazaki and Studio Ghibli.Their masterpiece like “My Neighbor Totoro (Tonari no Totoro)” and “Spirited Away (Sen to Chihiro no Kamikakushi)”are known globally.Its original world view with heart-warming and strong message has attracted a lot of fans in the world.

There is Ghibli’s museum located close to the Inokashira Park in Tokyo.

There are 2 ways to get to Ghibli Museum; one is walk from Kichihoji station through Inokashira Park and the other is walk or get on shuttle bus  from JR Mitaka station.

 

 

 

 

To the World of Ghibli

 

Three-story museum built based on the sketch drawn by director Hayao Miyazaki is really unique.There’s an atrium style ceiling and the museum is equipped with a traditional elevator and spiral staircases which lead up to upper floors and to the rooftop garden. Museums is composed of several zone, mini theater, shop and cafeteria. Walking through to inside, we can find beautiful stained glasses which some scene of Ghibli story are drawn.Taking photo is not allowed inside,so please imagine with this floor map.

Popular “Cat Bus” of Totoro

One of popular zone is”Cat Bus of Totoro”. Small child can go in and out the large stuffed animal Cat Bus. Riding to the top is really enjoyable. According to the report of my kid, Cat Bus has soft and comfortable feel. No additional fee is required to play.

At zone “Room of Start-moving”, you can learn how Ghibli’s animation is created, and you can also see a work area where Ghibli studio are reproduced at zone”Place where film is made”.

The world of “Castle in the Sky”

On the rooftop of the museam, a robot of “Castle in the Sky” stands as a guardian god of this museum. It becomes shooting spot.

At souvenir shop, we can find post card, pin badge, stationery, stuffed animal. Photo is “Levi stone of Castle in the Sky” . Levi stone’s light starts flashing strongly by recognizing the sound of magic spell.

* In conclusion *

 Ghibli Museum is the place both adult and child can enjoy and visitor can also deeply learn how Gibli animation film is created. Very reasonable ticket price   is also nice surprise.

Explore deep Asakusa by riding on Rickshaw

Asakusa is the most popular sightseeing site of Tokyo’s districts.

Although a lot of tourists just finish Asakusa’s travel only by visiting Sensoji( a very popular Buddhist temple) and the Nakamise( a shopping street for tourists), I wish you explore around Asakusa deeply because Asakusa is surrounded by shitamachi, low city with the atmosphere of old Tokyo. At the left side of Sensoji, nostalgic town is spread, and important cultural properties such as Asakusa Shrine are dotted at the right side.

*Click photo to enlarge

Source:ebisuya.com

 

You can easily find a guided tour on a rickshaw (“man powered vehicle”). There are more than 10 companies rickshaw, and fares are depends on the company.

■Location: Asakusa

■For example of ‘Tokyorikushaw’, fares are

Trial course JPY3,000/per person, JPY4,000/for two people
Half around(30min) JPY7,000/per person, JPY9.000/for two people
Full circle(70min) JPY15,000/per person, JPY20,000/for two people

Accessible mountain from Tokyo- Mt.Takao

Mt.Takao with 599m above sea level isn’t so high in Japan, yet it’s a No.1 mountaineering spot in the world for the number of climbers attracting 3 Million visitors a year. It takes less 1 hour by train from the center of Tokyo (i.e. No transfer from Shinjuku by Keio Line). For the reason that people can enjoy nature stroll easily, Mt. Takao was awarded the maximum of three stars by Michelin in 2007.

*Click photo to enlarge

Hiking courses are 8 Trails (Recommendation for beginner is Trail 1).Average hiking time is 1.5 hours.

Source: takaotozan.co.jp

 

During your hiking, you can also enjoy Japanese ambience as there are temple named Sanyaku Ouin (山薬王院) on the side of Mt.Takao.

Precincts of  the temple

The temple is famous for long-nosed goblin belief and there are Long-nosed goblin’s statues from place to place.Izuna gongendo(飯綱権現堂) with wonderful decoration is the feature of Mt.Takao sightseeing.

 

 

In autumn, the colored leaves over the mountain look a red carpet. It’s fantastic. Because of lower temperature, the best time of a cherry blossoms and colored leaves comes little bit later than the center of Tokyo, so if you miss colored leaves, you should go to Mt.Takao ! Mt.Takao provides great nature which has you feel four seasons, cherry blossoms in late spring, chilly steam and dark green in summer.

Source: takaotozan.co.jp

From observatory of mountain top, you will find the view of Mt. Fuji awarded as the world’s cultural and natural heritage.

Source: takaotozan.co.jp

Beer garden opens in summer season.

Source: takaotozan.co.jp

■ Location: Takaosanguchi (Keio Line)
* You might want to check hiking trails and hiking guide of Mt.Takao official website

Be healed by adorable cats -Cat Café

Cat Café is a place where cats lover can spend the time to watch and stroke cats,play with them, and are in close proximity with the cats. Don’t think café with sets of tables and chairs.It’s generaly like living room.Let’s go to see adorable cats !

 

Asakusa Nekoen

  

Source :facebook.com/asakusanekoen

*Click photo to enlarge

At Asakusa Nekoen near the Sensoji Temple,about 11-20 cats will welcome you. The friendly lady owner speaks good English and tells you about the cats. She is leading the way in rescuing homeless cats from the streets. So far over 100 cats were able to find forever home through the cafe.To avoid over-packed, they have a number limit on visitors at any one time.  you can book a time and return later at busy time.

■ Location: Asakusa
■ You are requested to wear socks for keeping cleanness
■ Free Wi-Fi available

Official website

 

Temarinoouchi

  

Source temarinoouchi.com

Temarinoouchi is Cat Cafe in Kichijoji. While it is common for most of Cat Cafes to charge by hours, there is no time limitation and no additional fee for extension.They also offer sweets and foods. Shop is the image of forest with lovely tree houses. You will feel slip into the fairy tale world.

■ Location: Kichijoji
■ Wi-Fi available
Official website(Japanese)

The second largest city, Yokohama

Yokohama is the second largest city in Japan after Tokyo.Minato Mirai Area right next to the port of Yokohama is a great place for sightseeting. Easily accessible by train (Ex.About half an hour from Shibuya), it offers various shopping malls such as Queen’s Square, Landmark Plaza, Mark IS, World Porters, etc.,and  attractions, museums, food and fun.

*Click photo to enlarge

 

 

 

 

To see the full view of Minatomirai, I recommend to see from Osanbashi,an impressive terminal.

 

Yokohama Chinatown

Very crowded,but Yokohama Chinatown is the biggest China town in Japan.You’ll find an energetic Chinatown with hundreds of restaurants and souvenir shops.

  

 

Click here to see official website of Minato Mirai 21.

What to do in Tokyo – Autumn season

 

Autumn Leaves Spot in Tokyo

 

The beautiful scenery of Japanese autumn covered with yellow and red colored leaves is world-famous.  The deciduous tree which turns red and yellow can be seen only in Japan, South East Asia and the part of North America. Japan has the largest number of the kind of deciduous trees, and Japanese colored leaves are more vivid and remarkable of the color contrast compared with other country.They are still beautiful even if it’ll be a fallen leaf.

The area where autumn leaves are seen earliest in Japan is Hokkaido, and the view starts around September,then a front line of colored leaves is moving to south gradually.In Tokyo, colored leaves are covered up around November.

 

MEIJI JINGU GAIEN（明治神宮外苑）

Ginkgo trees of Meiji Jingu Gaien is one of representative autumn leaves spot in the central of Tokyo.About 150 ginkgo trees of age more than 100 are turn gold to line up along to the street called golden road.Ginkgo festival is took place at the best season around late-November to begin-December every year.Stall stores open and it is crowded with people. Golden carpet with fallen leaves is awesome. Easy access in the central of Tokyo is also attractive.

 

 

RIKUGI-EN (六義園）

 

Rikugien is one of representative Japanese gardens in Tokyo. It’s fine garden has been counted as one of two excellent gardens of the Edo period together with Koishikawa Koraku-en.A big pond with some islands are surrounded by trees. In autumn leaves season, especially lightened up leaves at night are fantastic. It’s crowded, but it is worthy to see.

 

 

KOISHIKAWA KORAKUEN  GARDENS（小石川後楽園)

 

Koishikawa Koraku-en Gardens which is named after a Chinese teaching of ” a governor should warry before people and enjoy after people ” is full of Chinese flavor. Viewing red leaves over small bridge with Japanese atmosphere are beautiful.

YOYOGI KOEN（代々木公園)

One of large park in the central of Tokyo having 1300 trees, covered up with yellow and red leaves in autumn season. In spacious park, there are many benches and places to be seated. You can have relax and cozy moment.

 

Komazawa Olympic Park（駒沢オリンピック公園)

       

FEEL TOKYO recommends Komazawa Olympic park for who want to enjoy the autumn scenery as jogging or cycling.There is 2.1km length jogging/cycling course around the park where you can feel fresh air and beautiful autumn season with approximately 670 ginkgo and zelkova trees tinted colors. In addition to rental bicycle from kid to adult, a tandem(two-seater bicycle) and a four-wheel bicycle called “pear pear” are popular.

 

Location: Tokyu Den-en-toshi Line “Komazawa University Station” walk 15 minute
Admission: Free (Rental fee is only $1-2)
More park information https://www.tokyo-park.or.jp/park/format/access040.html

Formally dressed up children in kimono – Shichi go san

 

Shichi-go-san officially celebrated on November 15th is a traditional event to celebrate the healthy growth of children as they turn three,five and seven years of age. For the Japanese tradition of Shichi-go-san, girls aged three and seven, and boys aged three and five dress in kimonos to visit shrine. Around November, you can catch sight of dressing up Japanese children in kimono at shrine (or temple).

 

 

 

Each age has the following meaning :
Age 3 – Kamioki, a ceremony of allowing the hair to grow at the age of three
Age 5 – Hakama-gi,  boys aged five can wear “hakama”, a formal skirt for formal wear, for the first time
Age 7 – Obi-toki, the ceremony of fitting an “obi”, a sash belt, to a girl aged seven for the first time

     　

 

Sandy beach at such a place ! -Odaiba Seaside Park

Park with white sandy beach in Odaiba. The sand transported from Izu resort island realized to create the beach in the center of Tokyo. Sea bathing is not allowded but you can enjoy feeling the breeze of wind from Tokyo bay, sunbathing and windsurfing.

*Click photo to enlarge

You can see Rainbow Bledge in front of you.From sunset to night, the scenary of lightend up Tokyo Tower, the great city of Tokyo and Yakatabune, Japanese roofed pleasure boat is awesome.

 

 

It is also convenient place for dining and shopping.

 

Odaiba Kaihin Koen Info
■Location: Odaiba Kaihin Koen
Park Info

What to do in Tokyo – Countdown for the New Year

 

Experience Joya-no-kane at temple

Joya-no-kane are the 108 peals of the temple bell which are sounded on New Year’s Eve.The sound
of the bell rings out the old year and rings in the new year. It is also supposed to release people from the 108 forms of evil.

 

 

Recommeded temples for Joya-no-kane in Tokyo

 

Tsukiji Hongan-ji Temple
Location:Tsukiji
A Buddhist temple located in the Tsukiji district of Tokyo.The temple is adjacent to Tsukiji Station on the Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line.

 

Daihonzan Zojo-ji Temple Shurodo
Location:Onarimon or Hamamatsu-cho
A Buddhist temple in the Shiba neighborhood of Tokyo. It is the Great Main Temple of the Chinzei branch of Jōdo-shū Buddhism.

 

Sensoji Temple
Location:Asakusa
An ancient Buddhist temple located in Asakusa, Tokyo. It is Tokyo’s oldest temple, and one of its most significant.

 

Ikegami Honmon-ji Temple
Location: Nishi-Magome
600 people can ring the bell on a first-come-first-served basis

 

 

 

New Year Countdown event in Tokyo

 

Skytree New Year’s Eve special lightening

 

23:50 December 31st, 2017  ～ 1:00  January 1st ,2018

Source:twitter @tetsu_skytree

 

 

Asakusa Hanayashiki

Source: www.live3.info

 

On New Year Eve, an old-fashioned fancy amusement park “Asakusa Hanayashiki”closes 18:00pm once and reopens from 21:00ppm until 26:00. During this time, 10 attractions are free to ride only for JPY2,000(Adults more than 13 year-old) including admission fee. Children(2 year-old to 12 year-old) and handycapped are onlyJPY1,000.Every year the event of countdown is livened up exciting with plenty of the program including the live performace of Japanese comedian.

Also Senso-ji Temple, a popular spot of Hatsumode(the first visit of the year to shrine/temple) and Skytree which starts from early morning for the sunrise on New Year’s Day, are located nearby. Golden plan is countdown at Hanayashiki, Hatsumode at Senso-ji Temple,then seeing the sunrise at Skytree.