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The Japanese Garden in Shinjuku Goyen National Garden |
A visit to Japan is incomplete without witnessing the breathtaking Sakura, or cherry blossoms. On the very next day of our arrival, we headed to the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, just a short ride away from our accommodation. This vast park, spanning the lively districts of Shinjuku and Shibuya, is an oasis of tranquillity in the heart of Tokyo.
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The Cherry Blossom in Shinjuku Goyen |
The multi-hued cherry blossoms adorned the lush greenery with spring in full bloom, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The vibrant colours and the serene beauty of the different gardens enhanced the charm of the park.
Although Shinjuku Gyoen was completely destroyed during World War II, it was meticulously rebuilt and reopened in 1949. During the peak Sakura season, advance booking is essential, as the overwhelming rush can make entry difficult. The park boasts several themed gardens, including the traditional Japanese Landscape Garden and the elegant French Landscape Garden. A greenhouse and scenic ponds further enhance its beauty.
Shopping Extravaganza: Harajuku & Ginza
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Takeshita Street in Harajku |
A short distance from Shinjuku Gyoen lies Harajuku, a bustling shopping district renowned for its trendy boutiques and vibrant culture. The area is home to massive outlets like Uniqlo and IKEA, alongside countless branded stores offering an irresistible shopping experience. Takeshita Street, the heart of Harajuku’s fashion scene, is a must-visit for those looking to explore modern, youth-oriented trends, delicious street food, and unique souvenirs. At the entrance, a giant billboard broadcasts live footage of incoming tourists, adding to the electric atmosphere.
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The Tokyo Marathon in Ginza |
No shopping experience in Tokyo is complete without a visit to Ginza, often referred to as the ‘Mecca for Shoppers.’ While strolling through Ginza, we witnessed the Tokyo Marathon 2025 event. As we explored Ginza, we were captivated by its ultra-modern architecture and extravagant department stores like Mitsukoshi, Matsuya, and Don Quijote. Each multi-story shopping complex dazzles with neon lights and an unparalleled selection of luxury goods.
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A Racing Car in Nissan Showroom in Ginza |
One of the highlights of our Ginza visit was The Matcha Tokyo, a specialized store-cum-restaurant offering a diverse range of matcha-based drinks and confectionery. The long queues outside Mitsukoshi’s branch of The Matcha Tokyo spoke volumes about its popularity.
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The Next Gen AI car at Nissan Crossing |
Just around the corner, we stumbled upon the Nissan Crossing showroom, showcasing next-generation cars, including futuristic AI-powered and racing models—a true delight for automobile enthusiasts.
Culinary Delights: Vegan Ramen at Tokyo Station
On our way to visit Japan’s National Diet (Parliament), we made a stop at Tokyo Station, home to the renowned vegan ramen restaurant, T’s Tantan. Finding the restaurant took nearly half an hour, and once we arrived, we had to wait an additional 20 minutes before being seated. But the experience was well worth the effort.
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Golden Sesame Ramen at Ts Tantan |
T’s Tantan is a haven for vegan food lovers, offering mouthwatering delicacies like Golden Sesame Ramen, Black Sesame Ramen, and Gyoza. The continuous flow of diners is a testament to the restaurant’s exceptional culinary reputation. If you’re a vegan traveller in Tokyo, this place is an absolute must-visit.
A Glimpse into Japan’s Political Heritage: The National Diet
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At the National DIET Tokyo |
Our next stop was the National Diet, Japan’s parliamentary building, where we had pre-arranged a guided tour. After thorough verification of our passports and invitation letters, security officials escorted us through the premises.
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The National Diet monument in Tokyo |
Established in 1889 under the Meiji Empire, the Diet operates under a two-house system. The visit was not only insightful but also offered a fascinating glimpse into the rich history and carefully preserved artifacts housed within the edifice.
Roppongi Hills: The Grand Finale
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Maman at Roppongi Hills |
Capping off our Tokyo adventure was a visit to Roppongi Hills, one of the city’s most upscale districts. Maman a huge bronze spider took up residence in this neighborhood for the opening of Roppongi Hills in 2003. The highlight of the area is the iconic 54-story Mori Tower, a marvel of modern urban planning. From its observatory, we enjoyed a breathtaking panoramic view of Tokyo’s skyline. The development seamlessly integrates entertainment, residential, and commercial spaces, exemplifying Tokyo’s reputation as a city of innovation.
Final Thoughts
Each day spent in Tokyo was an unparalleled education in efficiency, culture, and the seamless coexistence of tradition and modernity. Despite hosting a population of over 30 million, the city operates with remarkable precision and order.
Stay tuned for the next instalment of our Tokyo adventure, where we will explore more must-visit destinations in this extraordinary metropolis!
PS : All pics are mine