Every year feels hotter than the earlier one and maybe it really is. In Tokyo, the arrival of summer heralds the refreshing delight of shaved ice, known as “kakigori” ／ かき氷” in Japanese. As the mercury rises and the sun blankets the city in its golden warmth, locals and visitors alike seek solace in this
The Enoshima Touroku 2023 (江の島灯籠2023) is an illumination event that allows visitors to experience the evening coolness while surrounded by 1,000 lanterns of various sizes inspired by Enoshima’s folklore and the illuminations at Enoshima Shrine. 2023 marks the 23rd edition of the event. Over the years, I have visited this event multiple times, but this
When it comes to finding peace and serenity amidst nature’s splendor, Kodai Hasu no Sato (古代蓮の里) in Gyoda, Saitama Prefecture, stands out as a hidden gem. This charming lotus park offers a sanctuary of tranquility, where visitors can immerse themselves in the mesmerizing beauty of ancient lotus blooms. The city of Gyoda has a long
July 16-17 2023 Odaiba, Tokyo’s captivating waterfront district, becomes a beacon of light and enchantment on Marine Day. This special holiday celebrates the ocean’s beauty and significance, and in Odaiba, it takes the form of a mesmerizing lantern festival. In 2004, the festival of lights, known as the “Sea Illumination Festival,” began at Odaiba Beach.
In the bustling world of airports, where stress and chaos often dominate, finding a tranquil haven seems like an unattainable dream. However, hidden within the magnificent Narita Terminal 1 in Tokyo, lies a hidden gem that offers solace and serenity—the Lotus Pond. Just outside the Terminal 1, amidst the modern architecture and vibrant atmosphere, this
Harajuku, the hip and vibrant neighborhood of Tokyo, has become even sweeter with the opening of a brand new Coldstone ice cream parlor (June 30, 2023). This delightful establishment offers an enticing menu of ice cream, crepes, and matcha treats, making it a haven for dessert enthusiasts. Not only does it offer delectable treats, but
Updates July 10, 2023 : The flowers are now on FULL BLOOM mode in our visit yesterday. Tokyo has a couple of Lotus flowers spots with my favorite one being the Shinobazu Pond in Ueno Park. The summer festival in Ueno Park is accompanied by beautiful lotus in the Shinobazu Pond which bloom late July
As every year, I forget the “humid and sweltering season” of Tokyo’s summer heat. Every year it feels “more hot than ever”. The moment you venture outside, the suffocating wall of heat hits you like a ton of bricks. It’s relentless, draining, and enough to make you question your sanity for leaving the comfort of
Asakusa Awa Odori (Saturday, July 1st, 2023): The Asakusa Awa Odori is a vibrant traditional dance festival held in Tokyo’s Asakusa district. After a 14-year hiatus, the festival returns with ten groups of dancers, including the local team Asakusa Thunder Ren, captivating audiences with energetic performances and colorful costumes. The event will take place in
Hydrangea flower or Ajisai spots in Tokyo bring up the usual recommendations like Asukayama Park, Asakusa Sumida River Bank or even out of the city spots like Kamakura. If I was to say that Hydrangea blossoms in Midtown are also a place to visit, you may not believe it. I too accidentally discovered the blossoms
Although I am happy to be born in 21st century with all the comforts todays modern world offers, anytime I come across a Ukiyo-e painting, I have this desire for simplicity or escapism, and the allure of a bygone era. Just look at the brilliant piece by Utagawa Hiroshige of the Asukayama Park with a
The enchanting world of anime figures comes to life against the backdrop of Sumida River in Asakusa, Tokyo. As the delicate petals of hydrangea blossoms unfurl, this picturesque location becomes a haven for photographers and enthusiasts eager to capture the synergy of nature, art, and pop culture. Visit this location in the month of June
Kamakura, the famous tourism spot in Kanagawa Ken near Tokyo was my first day long trip in 1998. I was fascinated by the huge Buddha statue in deep meditation on an open ground and have been visiting this place at least once a year. BUT, IT WAS ALWAYS IN THE DAY TIME and I have
Sankei-en Gardens has been on my autumn or the spring to-do-list for a long time. Known for its beautiful colourful autumn light up in the night, it is one of the most beautiful garden around the Yokohama area in Kanagawa Prefecture. It belonged to a silk trader, Tomitaro Hara, and is designated as one of
The Enoshima Island in Kanagawa Prefecture is a picturesque island located just 45 minutes on a train from central Tokyo. Benzaiten (Indian Goddesses Saraswati) , the goddess of music and entertainment, is enshrined on the island. The island in its entirety is dedicated to the goddess, who is said to have caused it to rise from the