Though some
countries and places are already started accepting tourist and travel restrictions
are a bit lighter but can’t help it, it is still uncertain, nowadays. It is
better healthy and safe at the same. I booked a flight to Japan sometime next
year even though I knew that it might be cancelled or whatsoever, well, it is
better to have something planned, better than nothing, right? Because of Covid-19, my spontaneous self slightly changes as there were things that needs
to consider… maybe soon if the new normal can also adapt with spontaneity,
then… I will be.
For the
meantime, let’s go back to Japan as I reminisce those wonderful places packed
with awesome spontaneous moments with my friends. City of Tokyo also offers lot
of things to do and explore as there were places that can be easily accessed
via subway (as it is also cheaper mode of transportation). So, one cold
afternoon where temperature dropped as approximately between 1-5 degrees
Celsius, we headed to Shibuya to visit Harajuku and Yoyogi Park and Meiji
Shrine. Fact, whenever I travel with my girlfriends, it doesn’t mean that they
have to do what I wanted to do or visit places that I wanted to visit. We are
grown up individuals that we can do whatever we like but if there’s one thing
we can’t do without each other – that’s to eat.
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| details on a lamp post |
While some of them went shopping at Harajuku, Gab and I went to Yoyogi Park and agreed to meet at
dinner time. However, it was already past 3 in the afternoon which means we
only have ~2 hours left to walk around for us to also reach and visit Meiji
Jingu Shrine.
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| Yoyogi Park |
Yoyogi Park
Yoyogi Park
serves local Tokyoites with sprawling lawns and ample sports facilities.
Compared to other parks that focus on things like flower variety or traditional
designs, Yoyogi Park’s charm comes from its straightforward functionality and
yet offer that Zen vibes. One of the reasons why I love parks and nature as it
radiates good energy to my senses and it was nurturing and relaxing. Aside from
the aesthetically calming surrounding, it clear my thoughts (as I overthink
sometimes) and replenishes with a great one… something that I look forward
whenever I travel. After an hour or so of walking with in between camera clicks
– we reached Meiji Jingu Shrine and quite close to its closing time so we
rushed to check what’s inside. It is
always great to know the rich culture and tradition of one place.
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| when walking was such a relaxing thing to do here |
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| and then... photo ops along the way |
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| love this! |
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| Smile! |
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| hey, there! |
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| such a scenic path inside Yoyogi Park |
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| lovely arc |
Meiji Jingu Shrine
Meiji Shrine is the Shinto shrine that is dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shōken; eight years after the passing of the emperor and six years after the passing of the
empress. The shrine was destroyed during World War II but was rebuilt shortly thereafter. The shrine does
not contain the emperor's grave, which is located at Fushimi-momoyama, south of Kyoto. Located
just beside the JR Yamanote Line's busy Harajuku Station,
Meiji Shrine and the adjacent Yoyogi Park make up a large forested area within the densely built-up city. The spacious shrine grounds offer walking paths that are great for a relaxing stroll.
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| Welcome to Meiji Jingu Shrine |
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| calm and serenity |
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| my friend, Gab! |
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| love this arc.. I dunno about you but I find it fancy. |
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| well wishes |
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| love the architecture |
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| fresh water, anyone? |
I wish we had ample time to explore
the area as the story behind this shrine was interesting. Plus, it is always
good to explore places if not rushing. Well, something to look forward for the
next visit. Hopefully, the booked flight in time for spring will push through.
It was already
dark when we headed to Harajuku and meet the friends and did a little shopping
while food tripping. I just hoped for longer time though but nevertheless, a
walk in the (Yoyogi) park was fulfilling and a breath of fresh air while
knowing the culture. Oh well, on this Japan trip – we’ve been to another
park and zoo, as well. 😊
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| shopping and foodtrippin', anyone? |
How to get there?
Yoyogi Park is open from dawn to dusk.
Admission is free.
Take the JR Yamanote line to Harajuku, Omotesando exit, or the Chiyoda line to Yoyogi-koen, exit 4.
Admission is free.
Take the JR Yamanote line to Harajuku, Omotesando exit, or the Chiyoda line to Yoyogi-koen, exit 4.
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