At Shinobazu Pond in Ueno Park in early spring, the scenery still has some of the bleakness of fall and winter. The trees along the pond have yet to sprout new leaves, without the liveliness of spring flowers. Walking slowly along the pond and watching the occasional person pedal a swan boat across the water, the bustle of the city seems far away. It's a great place to stop and enjoy a quiet moment. By early summer, the pond takes on a completely different appearance, with broad lotus leaves spreading across the water and soft pink lotus flowers blooming one after another. The scenery is fresh and full of life. Each season has its own charm, but the lotus season is especially worth making a special trip to see.
Shinobazu Pond | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Tempozan Marketplace
Located within the "Tempozan Harbor Village," where you can enjoy a full day of popular spots including one of the world's largest aquariums Kaiyukan and one of the largest Ferris wheels in Japan, this large commercial facility houses about 60 stores including fashion, miscellaneous goods, accessories shops, restaurants, and food courts.
Before riding the cable car, you can take a stroll around Tempozan Marketplace. There are plenty of small shops, food, and souvenirs, and the area has a lively yet relaxed atmosphere. You can browse around, grab some snacks, and get a feel for local life in Osaka. Afterward, head over to ride the cable car and enjoy the views around Tempozan.
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Motomachi / Yamate Area in Yokohama
The Yamate district is located on a small hill to the south of Yokohama Chinatown. After the opening of the port in 1859, this area overlooking the sea became a foreign settlement, following Kannai. Many Western-style houses remain or have been relocated among lush greenery, including the Yamate Museum, a wooden house built in 1909 that blends Japanese and Western styles.
The Motomachi-Yamate area is a very pleasant place for a walk. The streets along the way are clean, the atmosphere is relaxed, and the area still retains a strong international feel. There are many unique clothing stores, variety shops, dessert shops, and cafés lining the streets, so you can browse as you walk. If you continue toward Yamate, you can also enjoy the Western-style houses and harbor views. It’s very relaxing.
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Kocho Dim Sum Shop Main Store
Home to past champions of the World Chinese Cuisine Competition, Kocho is a renowned restaurant group that brings its award-winning flavors to the heart of Yokohama Chinatown. At its flagship dim sum shop, visitors can casually enjoy a wide variety of freshly made delicacies.
When visiting Yokohama Chinatown, I came with a Japanese friend to try this popular meat bun! With one bite, the piping-hot dough and tender, juicy meat filling were so satisfying to eat while walking around. My friend said it’s very well known in Chinatown, and the line certainly showed how popular it is. If you’re exploring Chinatown and see a line at this dim sum shop, you might as well grab one too. It’s a simple, delicious little pleasure before continuing your stroll!
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