Edo Castle in the fall is almost unfairly beautiful! The slightly cool weather, paired with golden leaves covering the ground, makes walking through the spacious castle ruins feel like a movie scene.
The shoguns of the past may be gone, but the impressive gates, moats, and stone walls still feel incredibly grand. I couldn’t help stopping every few steps to take photos.
I originally thought I could see it all in half a day, but the more I walked, the more hooked I got. It felt like exploring through different stages of an adventure, and before I knew it, several hours had passed.
If you’re visiting Tokyo, don’t just focus on shopping. Set aside some time for a walk around Edo Castle. You’ll realize history can be this charming!
The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace | Review by 楊雅雯
Other Reviews by 楊雅雯
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Haneda Airport (Tokyo International Airport)
Haneda is Japan’s largest airport, officially called Tokyo International Airport. Each of the three terminals has an observation deck where you can watch closely the airplanes take off and land, shopping facility, and restaurants with different cuisines.
When I go to Tokyo, one of the things I look forward to most is landing at Haneda Airport.
You don’t have to rush off right after getting off the plane. I always head to the observation deck first to watch the planes take off and land, and it’s so relaxing. When I get hungry, I’ll find a restaurant for a meal, then browse the souvenir shops. Time just flies by.
Haneda doesn’t feel like a regular airport that’s only for catching flights. It feels more like a small shopping mall, and I always end up staying an extra hour or two without meaning to. A trip to Japan is already fun from the moment it starts at Haneda. -
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Tokyo Monorail
The Tokyo Monorail that runs between Haneda Airport and Tokyo, with an average interval of only 4 minutes, can take you to Hamamatsucho Station in as little as 13 minutes, where a transfer to the JR Yamanote Line can be made.
The excitement of traveling starts the moment I get on the Tokyo Monorail. From Haneda Airport, it takes less than 15 minutes to reach Hamamatsucho, and transferring to JR is super convenient. No need to drag your luggage a long way.
I love getting a window seat, enjoying the view of Tokyo Bay while wondering what new memories this trip will bring. Every time I come to Tokyo, this ride officially kicks off my trip to Japan. -
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Ueno Tosho-gu
A shrine dedicated to the first shogun of the Edo shogunate (1603-1867), Tokugawa Ieyasu.
While walking around Ueno Park, I unexpectedly came across a shrine with “understated luxury” — Ueno Tosho-gu.
I originally thought it was just a small spot inside the park, but once I walked in, I realized it was something special! The golden hall was shining brightly, and the exterior walls were covered with beautiful carvings. It was hard to believe the building has been around for hundreds of years. No wonder it has been carefully preserved in Japan and designated an Important Cultural Property.
The Karamon Gate and the neatly lined bronze lanterns on both sides were also real highlights. Every angle looked great in photos, and even casual snapshots had a strong Edo-period vibe.
Interestingly, there is also an “Eiyo Gongen Shrine” here, which is said to bring good luck for exams, work, and winning competitions. Many Japanese people come specifically to pray for good fortune. -
