One of the things I was most looking forward to on my Tokyo trip was seeing the cherry blossoms at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. As soon as I entered the park, I was amazed by the blossoms in full bloom. The pink and white flowers, spacious lawns, ponds, and gardens came together like a beautiful spring painting.
Walking beneath the cherry trees was incredibly romantic. Whenever a gentle breeze passed through, petals slowly drifted to the ground, making me stop and admire the view. The park was very pleasant, with visitors leisurely enjoying the blossoms, taking photos, and making the most of spring. Compared with the bustling city, Shinjuku Gyoen felt peaceful and elegant, allowing me to fully appreciate the magic of cherry blossom season.
This visit not only gave me the chance to enjoy some of Tokyo’s most beautiful spring scenery, but also helped me appreciate how deeply people in Japan value and cherish nature. Although cherry blossom season is brief, it left me with wonderful, lasting memories.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden | Review by BobbyJenny
Other Reviews by BobbyJenny
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Umeda Sky Building / Kuchu Teien Observatory
The 40-story, twin super high-rise was completed in 1993. The two towers are connected on top. In England, it was selected into the “Top 20” list of world buildings as a thrilling skyscraper. The beauty of the building itself is part of its popularity. On the 3rd floor, there is a gate for the elevators to shoot you up to the 35th floor.
The Umeda Sky Building is one of Osaka's most iconic landmarks, and I was most excited to visit the Kuchu Teien Observatory for the city views. As the elevator climbed higher, the Osaka cityscape became more and more spectacular. From the observatory, you can look out over the densely packed buildings and roads, with a very expansive view. It's especially beautiful in the evening, from daylight to sunset and then the city lights coming on at night. Each time of day has its own charm.
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Kuromon Market
Kuromon Market in Minami, the heart of Osaka, is said to have started around 1822 and was approved as an official market by Osaka Prefecture in 1902. The market got the name “Kuromon Market (Black gate market)” because the gate to Enmyoji Temple near the market was black. Since then, it has been loved as Osaka’s favorite kitchen, and it has become a popular tourist attraction these days.
Kuromon Market is a bustling food market in Osaka. As soon as you walk in, you'll see a dazzling array of seafood, meat, fruit, and snacks. The air is filled with the aroma of food, making it hard to resist eating as you explore. On this visit to Kuromon Market, I tried fresh seafood and Osaka specialties, and everything looked so tempting. The market has a lively, energetic atmosphere, and eating while strolling and taking in the street views really made it feel like a trip. By the end, not only were my taste buds satisfied, but I also got a sense of daily life at a local Osaka market. It's well worth adding to an Osaka itinerary.
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Himeji City Zoo
Located within the grounds of the World Heritage Site, Himeji Castle, next to the Sannomaru Plaza, is the "Zoo Inside the Castle." Upon entering the zoo and walking straight ahead, you'll come across the red "Shiromi Bashi Bridge," which offers a picturesque view of Himeji Castle over the moat. From the west side of the old elephant house, you can see the castle's main keep reflected upside down on the moat's surface-a unique viewing spot that draws many visitors.
Himeji City Zoo is next to Himeji Castle and is a great place for a leisurely stroll. On this visit to the zoo, I saw many adorable animals, including elephants, giraffes, and lions. It was really interesting to observe them up close. The zoo doesn't feel rushed, so you can watch the animals while enjoying views of Himeji Castle, which feels very special.
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