On this Christmas trip to Tokyo, I made a special point of experiencing the romantic winter-only illuminations. I originally thought the highlights would all be along the streets of Roppongi Hills, but Mohri Garden at night was even more stunning. The entire garden sparkled with countless lights, and the water perfectly reflected the illuminations and the Christmas tree in the center. Looking up, the iconic modern buildings and glass facades of Roppongi Hills formed the backdrop. The dreamy atmosphere created by the blend of a traditional Japanese garden and a modern city nightscape was truly memorable. I highly recommend experiencing it if you visit Tokyo in winter. This garden was an unexpected find, and the tiny lights looked like fireflies, creating one of my most unforgettable views of Tokyo.
Mohri Garden | 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
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Roppongi Keyakizaka Street
Spanning approximately 400 meters east-west through Roppongi Hills, Roppongi Keyakizaka Street connects the Circular Route 3 and TV Asahi Street. It's a gently sloping avenue lined with zelkova trees, where beds of colorful flowers mark the seasons.
If I had to choose one iconic Christmas scene in Japan, it would definitely be Roppongi Keyakizaka Street. Since I happened to be in Tokyo around Christmas this time, I had to go see it. After eating at the nearby Shake Shack, I slowly walked over with the crowd. The entire street was packed, and everyone had the same goal: squeezing onto that iconic pedestrian bridge to photograph the beautiful view of Tokyo Tower framed by sparkling lights. I waited quietly in the crowd and timed my shot from the bridge. Just as the traffic passed and the taillights lit up, I captured a Tokyo night view that I really love.
A lot of people stand in the middle of the road to take photos when the crosswalk light turns green, to the point that Japanese police have to be there to maintain order. But rather than lining up just because everyone else is, I actually prefer the process of avoiding the crowds a little and looking for a unique angle. Those moments of waiting intently and pressing the shutter are the most unforgettable scenes from a trip.
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Omotesando Hills
Featuring an impressive architectural design suited to Omotesando’s elegant and fashionable high street image, Omotesando Hills has been a landmark in the area since its opening in 2006.
Maybe it’s because of the strong impression Japanese dramas left on me, but I’ve always felt that if you want to experience Tokyo’s fashionable, upscale side, you have to visit Omotesando in person. After arriving by train, I took a stroll along the pleasant tree-lined avenue. The luxury boutiques on both sides were all impressively designed, one stunning building after another. Along the way, I unexpectedly discovered a cute little shrine, Akiba Shrine, tucked between tall luxury retail buildings. It was a delightful little surprise.
As a local landmark, Omotesando Hills truly lives up to its reputation as a work by master architect Tadao Ando. The beautiful lines and interplay of light and shadow make it hard not to stop and take another look. Leisurely walking and shopping here not only lets you experience its distinctive urban aesthetic, but also a completely different side of Tokyo’s refined atmosphere.
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Tokyo Midtown Yaesu
Directly connected to JR Tokyo Station, Tokyo Midtown Yaesu is a mega retailer built around the concept of “Japan Presentation Field - A City Where Japan’s Dreams Gather and the World’s Dreams Grow.”
This time I made a special detour to Tokyo Midtown Yaesu mainly to buy the extremely popular souvenir I’d been wanting for a long time: New York Perfect Cheese cheese butter cookies. Before leaving, I did some research and found out there was a shop here. I could conveniently stop by while transferring at JR Tokyo Station without having to line up at one of the popular locations. I was so happy that I was able to get these cheese cookies.
After buying what I came for, I leisurely explored the underground shopping area and mall. The space was comfortable and easy to browse. For travelers, it’s perfectly connected to Tokyo Station, and getting around is very smooth and convenient. It’s a nice place that I’d like to visit again.
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