Hanami refers to cherry blossom viewing, but it literally means “flower viewing”. These beautiful flowers usually come into bloom between March and May. The exact duration will depend on its location. The milder the climate, the earlier they bud. In warm islands of Okinawa for example, you can view the cherry blossoms as early as January. This of course depends on the weather, so the dates may vary a bit each year,
Cherry blossom seasons lasts for a little over 2 weeks if there are no strong winds and rain. They usually come into full bloom (mankai) a week after the first buds blossom (kaika). These lovely flowers are viewable for another week and then they start falling off.
The art of hanami may be done at parks and even tourist spots such as castles, temples or shrines. Hanami parties in form of picnics at parks or gardens are also quite popular. Here is a list of cherry blossom spots which you can visit when you are in Japan.
Tokyo –Ueno Park, Shinjuku Gyoen, Chidorigafuchi, Sumida Park
Yokohama –Sankeien Garden, Mitsuike Park
Kamakura –Tsurugaoka Hachimangu Shrine
Full Five Lakes –Northern Shores of Kawaguchiko, Chureito Pagoda
Matsumoto –Matsumoto Castle
Kanazawa –Kenrokuen
Nagoya –Yamazakigawa Riverside, Nagoya Castle
Hikone –Hikone Castle
Kyoto –Philosopher’s Path, Maruyama Park, Arashiyama, Heian Shrine
Osaka –Kema Sakuranomiya Park, Osaka Castle, Expo 70 Commemorative Park, Osaka Mint Bureau
Nara –Nara Park
Yoshino –Yoshinoyama
Himeji –Himeji Castle
Okayama –Handayama Botanical Garden, Korakuen Garden, Okayama Castle
Hiroshima –Hiroshima Peace Park. Miyajima
Takamatsu –Megijima Island
Matsuyama –Matsuyama Castle
Fukuoka –Fukuoka Castle, Maizuru Park
Kumamoto –Kumamoto Castle
Sendai –Mikamine Park
Tohoku –Miharu Takizakura, Kitakami, Kakunodate, Hirosaki Castle
Hokkaido –Matsumae Park, Goryokaku Fort, Maruyama Park and Hokkaido Shrine
Posted March 29th, 2012 by Anna | Comment (0)
I was quite surprised to see a very long list of interesting things about Japan. I’ve read most of them in other resources, but some sound like generalizations n my opinion. I also did my research about the “blue” traffic light and it is indeed true. It is because of adjective form aoi (??)) -a Japanese color word which includes blue and green.
I decided to compile a list of those that caught my attention.
Image from tinisanto
Posted February 27th, 2012 by Anna | Comment (0)
Love is in the air and most people are probably wondering how the Japanese celebrate this romantic day, given that they are often stereotyped as reserved individuals. Just like most Asian countries, Westernization and commercialization have invaded this love-filled day. Sales of chocolates and other gift items soar at least a week before Valentine’s Day.
The holiday was introduced by Morozof Ltd in 1936 when it released an ad intended for foreigners living in Japan. In 1953, they began the trend of giving heart-shaped chocolates. Japanese confectioners saw the opportunity and started making them. It was in 1958 when a department store launched a “Valentine Sale”, offering a card and three pieces of chocolates for 170 Yen.
What makes Japan unique is the fact that they do not go on romantic dinners on Valentine’s Day; “date night” is celebrated on Christmas Eve. Aside from this, only women give chocolates on Valentine’s Day. It gives them an excuse to express their feelings, which was taboo back in the day. This custom started because of a typo error which resulted in a mixed up translation during their initial promotional campaigns. The executive of that particular chocolate company is probably amused knowing that he is the culprit of this unique tradition.
The question now is when do men get their turn to express their love and affection? Well the get to do so exactly a month after. It was in 1980 when the Japanese National Confectionery Industry Association coined March 14 as “reply day” or “Ai ni Kotaeru White Day” (Answer Love on White Day), now known as White Day, so that men can “return the favor” to those who gave them gifts on Valentine’s Day. On this event, men are supposed to reciprocate by giving gifts which are twice or thrice the value of the gifts they received. If he gives one of equal value it means that he is ending the relationship.
Image from Crickontour
Posted February 13th, 2012 by Anna | Comment (0)
Planning your trip can be quite difficult if you are not familiar with the place you are visiting. It is best to book a hotel nearby the places you would like to visit or somewhere easily accessible. So here is a list of various areas in Tokyo what to do there:
Akasaki/Roppongi Area
This area has a great night life. You can shop and dine here too. Tokyo Midtown and Roppongi Hills are major landmarks in this area.
Asakusa/Ueno Area
Get a feel of the old Japan in this area. It is one of the most popular tourist attractions. Enjoy shopping at the ameyoko streets, visit Ueno Park and surrounding museums and shopping malls here.
Ginza Area
Here you can find luxurious shops, hotels, theaters, restaurants, clubs and department stores. It is a high end area where adults can shop and dine.
Shinagawa Area
It is the shopping and entertainment central in Tokyo. Here you can find many hotels situated nearby the JR Shinagawa station. The railway hub can also be found here.
Shinjuku Area
Shinjuku is considered as one of the busiest areas in Tokyo. There are many convenient hotels in the area and it is a good spot to shop and enjoy.
Ikebukuro Area
This is another busy Tokyo district where you can find great entertainment. It has a railway hub, shopping malls, restaurants and theaters to name a few.
Shibuya Area
Just like Shinjuku and Ikebukuro, this busy district is great for shopping and entertainment especially for the younger crowd.
With these descriptions, it is easier to choose what to do and where to stay while you are in Tokyo. Enjoy!
Posted January 31st, 2012 by Anna | Comment (0)
When traveling it helps to be familiar with the place you will visit, so that it is easier to map out your itinerary and decide where to stay, eat or what to do.
The Tokyo Metropolis is Japan’s capital. It is the set of the Japanese government. Here you can find the Imperial Palace where the Royal Family resides. The now developed city was once a small fishing village named Edo. Its whole area is a little over 2 million square kilometers, with a population of over 13 million people as of August 2011.
There are various airports within Tokyo and its islands. Getting around is also not a problem because they have a reliable public transport system. You can take the Metro, bus or taxis easily. Ferries are also available in case you want to visit neighboring islands.
Tokyo houses many museums and theatres all over for you to appreciate art and music. You can visit the Imperial Palace or check the Asakusa Shrine for sightseeing too. You can also enjoy the many festivals they have throughout the year or enjoy the cherry blossoms at bloom in spring. During this time, many people go for walks or have picnics at the Ueno Park, Inokashira Park or the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden.
If you are fond of cosplays and modern fashion, Shibuya’s Harajuku is the place to be. Walking around this area is definitely an interesting experience. As for food, there are many fine dining and izakayas all over for you to choose from. Most of them serve traditional Japanese food which you will surely enjoy. You can never go wrong with ramen, tempura, grilled meats/seafood and sushi.
Posted January 30th, 2012 by Anna | Comment (0)
You know what they say: when in Rome, do as the Romans do . . . and we all know what the Romans do (they wear togas and watch gladiator battles, right?). But what if you are in Tokyo, and for the New Year, of all things? It seems safe to say that the bright lights and bustle of downtown Tokyo easily match the atmosphere in New York City, so there has to be some major excitement in Tokyo come the New Year. That’s exactly right. To spend New Years in Tokyo is to close one year and begin a new year with a really big – huge () – bang. If you plan on being in Tokyo around that time, then you are in for a real treat. Here is a guide to celebrating the New Year in Tokyo:
Japanese New Year
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Posted November 17th, 2011 by Wayne Ernest | Comment (0)
Tokyo is a place that meshes the most modern of experiences and amenities with ancient, sacred sites. If you are planning a trip to Tokyo, then you will be pleased to find that there is a wide array of interesting, entertaining and unforgettable sights and sounds to take in for each and every type and age of person. Here are five stunning sites to see in Tokyo:
Kyokyo (The Imperial Palace). This is the actual home of Japan’s Emperor and the Imperial family – a modern reconstruction of the Meiji Imperial Palace, which was destroyed by bombers in WWII. It was also once the site of Edo Castle – the largest castle in the world – and, although the castle is gone, the impressive moats, defense walls, armories and watch towers still remain. Take a guided tour of the palace, itself, and then explore the on-site art museum and the opulent East Garden. And, yes, Aurelio did mention The Imperial Palace in his post 5 Free Attractions to Visit in Tokyo the other day – but this is one site worth mentioning again! Continue reading »
Posted November 13th, 2011 by Wayne Ernest | Comment (0)
Japan can a wonderful cultural experience for any traveler. The shrines, temples and customs of Japan can also offer a interesting learning experience. However, before you visit Japan, there are some things you should know about how to conduct yourself. Here are just five etiquette tips to follow while visiting this Japan.
Use a Proper Greeting
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Posted November 10th, 2011 by Wayne Ernest | Comment (0)
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Posted November 10th, 2011 by Anna | Comment (0)
Tokyo, Japan is a senses-stimulating experience of lights and colors – so much so that it can be a whirlwind for travelers who aren’t prepared with a targeted vision of exactly what they want to see while they are there. What’s more, it can be hard to separate all that glitters from the actual gold . . . and all that sight-seeing can add up. Fortunately, many of Tokyo’s most worthwhile attractions won’t bust your bank account. Here are five free attractions to visit in Tokyo:
Imperial Palace. This is the residence of Japan’s imperial family, and is in a picturesque park-like setting and surrounded by awe-inspiring moats, bridges, and massive walls. Take a guided tour through the palace, take in Emperor Showa’s art collection at the on-site museum, and walk through the majestic East Garden area for a taste of ancient Asia that you will never forget. Continue reading »
Posted November 9th, 2011 by Wayne Ernest | Comment (0)
