Share useful Japan travel information, Japan tourism tips, air tickets and hotel guide.
Like Kyoto, Nara is a popular tourist destination in the Kansai region, and many Japanese students visit Nara on school trips during middle and high school. When it comes to sightseeing in Nara, Nara Park covers an extensive area of about 660 hectares, approximately 140 times the size of the Tokyo Dome. Nearby, you'll find […]
Not Only Deer! Must-see Attractions in Nara Park and Its Surroundings Read More »
Hakone stands as one of Japan's most beloved tourist destinations, situated in proximity to the city center. It boasts numerous captivating landmarks such as Hakone Checkpoint, Lake Ashi, Owakudani, and Sengokuhara.
In this instance, we shall present hotels, villas, and day-use pools in Okinawa that boast a plethora of swimming facilities! Enrich your Okinawa sojourn by selecting accommodations adorned with swimming pools. We will also introduce hotels with pools that cater to both children and adults, serving as a valuable reference in your choice of lodgings and cottages. Additionally, insights into water slides and recreational amenities will be provided!
Top 10 Highly Recommended Pool Resorts in Okinawa Read More »
In the first half of December 2022, I spent most of my time in Okinawa Prefecture. We stayed on Ishigaki Island for 10 nights before moving to the main island of Okinawa, where we stayed in Naha City for 5 nights.
During check-in at the hotel in Ishigaki Island, the staff at the front desk asked me, "Are you here for work?" I've heard that more and more people are inclined towards long-distance travel, but even so, 10 days might not seem like a typical vacation.
A Narrative From A U.S. Resident: Choosing Okinawa Over Hawaii for Remote Work Read More »
Hakodate, the exotic port city, boasts a diverse array of souvenirs. Delicious snacks made with fresh Hokkaido ingredients and delectable local seafood, among other delights. From the multitude of local specialties, we will introduce carefully selected and highly recommended items, including popular choices among tourists and travel-friendly treats.
Lake Kawaguchi is a conveniently located lakeside resort area, merely a two-hour drive from the city center. Among the Fuji Five Lakes, it stands out as the most frequented by tourists, boasting numerous scenic attractions in its vicinity.
Amami Oshima is situated between Kagoshima and Okinawa. In recent years, it has gained widespread popularity due to the introduction of budget air travel, with its unique culture and the enchanting expanse of the sea adding to its allure.
In recent days, it seems that spring is just around the corner. However, when it comes to the essence of spring, the first thing that comes to mind is the cherry blossom viewing information in Japan.
Therefore, this time, I want to introduce the charm of Tokyo's representative cherry blossom viewing spot, Ueno Onshi Park, which gathers various cafes and entertainment facilities in its vast space among the numerous "cherry blossom viewing spots."
Popular Since the Edo Period, Ueno Park is Japan's Premier Attraction
The history of Ueno Onshi Park, commonly known as Ueno Park, dates back to the construction of Kaneiji Temple during the reign of the third shogun of the Edo Shogunate, Tokugawa Iemitsu.
Occupying an area of approximately 530,000 square meters, including Kaneiji Temple that still retains its original appearance, the park is vast and one of Tokyo's best recreational destinations with numerous attractions.
Prominent museums such as the Tokyo National Museum, National Museum of Nature and Science, Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum, Ueno Mori Art Museum, and the National Museum of Western Art are located in the area. There's also the Ueno Zoo, where children can enjoy ample play space within the expansive park.
The park is home to around 800 to 1200 cherry blossom trees, making it one of the best cherry blossom viewing spots in the Kanto region. Cherry blossom viewing has been popular here since the Edo period, with approximately four million visitors coming to admire the blossoms each year. It has also been selected as one of Japan's top 100 cherry blossom viewing spots.
The park boasts a rich variety of cherry blossom cultivars, with Somei Yoshino leading the collection of over 50 different varieties. Visitors to the National Museum of Nature and Science can also witness the rare Amagi Yoshino cherry blossoms, creating a picturesque scene of spring.
When is the Best Time to View Cherry Blossoms in Ueno Park?
The best season to appreciate cherry blossoms in Ueno Park is usually from late March to early April, coinciding with the graduation and enrollment season. The Ueno Cherry Blossom Festival is held around the peak bloom of cherry blossoms, making it the optimal time for visits.
During the cherry blossom festival, there are many attractions that make you feel as if you are in the heart of Tokyo. In addition to lively daytime stalls and festival music, the cherry blossoms are illuminated by lanterns in the evening, creating an atmosphere filled with emotions and soft light, even after dark.
Traveling to Ueno Park
Ueno Park is located outside Ueno Station, easily accessible with convenient transportation. As a crucial transportation hub with approximately 120,000 people entering and exiting daily, finding the "Park Ticket Gate" within the station allows you to reach the park in about a 5-minute walk.
Ueno Station is also served by the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, Hibiya Line, and Keisei Line, making it very convenient for non-JR users. When the weather begins to warm up, it is an ideal place for a spring stroll due to its accessible transportation.
The Ueno Park area does not have free parking lots, so nearby paid parking lots can easily become crowded, especially during cherry blossom season. It is easy to reach by train or on foot, but if you plan to drive, please be cautious.
Ueno Park Information in 2023
In the past few years, many events have been canceled due to the spread of the novel coronavirus. The "Ueno Sakura Festival" in 2023 is scheduled to take place from March 17 (Friday) to April 9 (Sunday).
During this period, the park's cafes and restaurants, as well as museums and art galleries, will feature seasonal menus and activities. This offers you a regularly refreshing experience, so it is recommended to visit Ueno Park while taking preventive measures against infection.
As the "first urban park in Japan," Ueno Onshi Park boasts a long history and tradition. On warm days, it is an excellent place for a stroll, enjoying the beautiful cherry blossoms while contemplating how spring has evolved from the Edo period to modern Tokyo.
【Ueno Park】Cherry Blossom Viewing Information 2023 - Japan's Premier Attraction Read More »