Omiya Park is right next to Hikawa Shrine. While visiting the shrine, I wandered over to the park and quietly sat by the lake, watching the sunlight shimmer on the water. In the chilly weather, I bought a hot can of corn potage from a vending machine to warm my hands while admiring the shrine’s elegant, traditional architecture. I blended right in and experienced the everyday life of local Japanese people. It was an incredibly relaxing and pleasant time. There is also a small zoo in the park that you can visit, making it a unique, slow-paced experience.
Omiya Park, Saitama Prefecture | Review by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人
Other Reviews by 一個漸漸喜歡上慢旅的人
-
Roppongi Hills
This multipurpose commercial complex opened as a Roppongi landmark in 2003. In the middle of Roppongi Hills stands Mori Tower, a 54-story skyscraper office building rising 238 meters from the ground.
Bustling Tokyo is always especially charming during the Christmas season, and Roppongi Hills is definitely a great place to soak up the holiday atmosphere. The entire neighborhood is decorated with dazzling lights, making it incredibly romantic. You can also stop by the Christmas market, which has an international feel, and the air is filled with festive cheer.
When you get tired from walking around, I highly recommend heading to the nearby Shake Shack for dinner. Although it’s a famous burger chain from the United States, the beef patties in Japan are especially juicy and delicious. On a cold winter night, ordering a classic cheeseburger with a rich, creamy milkshake and taking a big bite is incredibly satisfying. It’s a treat for both the eyes and the taste buds, and a wonderful memory of chilly Tokyo that makes me want to keep coming back.
-
-
Roppongi Hills Christmas Keyakizaka Illumination
Announcing the arrival of winter to the streets of Roppongi is "Roppongi Hills Christmas". At the "Keyakizaka Illumination", the tree-lined avenue of Keyakizaka, stretching about 400 meters, is adorned with approximately 800,000 LEDs. Bathed in the light themed "SNOW & BLUE", the ambiance feels as though one has stepped into a fantastical silvery realm.
It was my first time visiting Tokyo around Christmas, so of course I couldn’t miss the hugely popular Christmas market and the classic Roppongi Hills Keyakizaka Illumination.
That day, I slowly walked up the gently sloping street. The rows of zelkova trees lining the road were covered in dazzling lights, like a brilliant galaxy. When I reached the pedestrian bridge in the middle and looked back, Tokyo Tower stood quietly at the end of the glittering sea of colorful lights. The scene was so dreamlike it took my breath away. Experiencing Tokyo’s rich holiday atmosphere on a cold winter night, with such a romantic and breathtaking view, was truly unforgettable and left me with lasting memories. It’s worth a visit.
-
-
Showa Kinen Park
Grassy fields and water fountains, sports courts, gardens of seasonal flowers and trees to enjoy and pond shore vegetation to be appreciated are dotted throughout this park, roughly the size of 40 Tokyo Domes.
Showa Kinen Park is just a quick train ride from central Tokyo. When I visited in late fall, the entire park was enveloped in a poetic, desolate beauty that made me feel at peace.
The park was much more expansive than I had imagined. By the time I walked all the way to the famous Japanese garden, my legs were a little sore, but sitting quietly on a bench and taking in the autumn scenery mixed with fallen leaves was especially soothing. There were very few visitors, and the atmosphere had a rare sense of peace and relaxation. If you want to get away from the noise of the city and fully appreciate the pure beauty of fall, I highly recommend taking a walk here.
-
