Shinjuku Gyoen is one of Tokyo’s premier cherry blossom viewing spots, with nearly 1,000 cherry trees of more than 65 varieties planted across its expansive lawns. From the early-blooming kanzakura and Kawazu cherry trees to the final display of Somei Yoshino and double-flowered cherry blossoms, the different varieties bloom one after another. The garden combines Japanese, English landscape, and French formal garden designs, creating enchanting scenery. Every spring, visitors and local residents bring picnic blankets and sit beneath the cherry trees, enjoying food and the romantic views while taking in the feeling of spring in Tokyo.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden | Review by Linda Liao
Other Reviews by Linda Liao
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Senagajima Sunset Park
Located on Senagajima in southern Okinawa’s main island, this scenic spot is a local favorite for its breathtaking views. Just about 15 minutes by car from Naha Airport, its easy access is another reason for its popularity. Perched on a gentle hill, the park offers sweeping views of the endless blue sea and sky.
下午抵達瀨長島，沿著海岸慢慢散步，海風輕拂，整個步調也跟著放慢。這裡可以欣賞開闊的海景，偶爾還有飛機飛過。可惜行程關係無法好好欣賞日落美景，希望有機會再訪〜
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Heian Jingu Shrine
Established in 1895 to commemorate the 1100th anniversary of the transfer of the capital to Heian-kyo, this shrine is relatively new. The buildings emulate the central government office, the "Chodo-in," where significant ceremonies took place during the Heian period. Once you step into the precincts, adorned with these vermilion structures, you feel as though you've time-traveled back to the Heian era.
The first impression Heian Jingu Shrine gives is one of grandeur. The enormous vermilion torii gate and brightly colored shrine buildings are very eye-catching, while the spacious white gravel courtyard inside evokes the solemn atmosphere of the Heian period. Heian Jingu Shrine was built in 1895, with its buildings modeled after the Imperial Palace complex of Heian-kyo. Behind them is a shrine garden covering about 30,000 square meters. After visiting in person, I felt that the architecture and gardens each had their own distinctive character, making it a great place for a leisurely stroll.
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JR Kanazawa Station
Kanazawa Station, the gateway to Ishikawa, is served by the Hokuriku Shinkansen, which opened in 2015. It connects Tokyo and Kanazawa in about 2 hours and 30 minutes, and serves as the starting point for sightseeing in Kanazawa and the Hokuriku region.
The moment I walked out of Kanazawa Station, I was immediately struck by the magnificent Tsuzumi-mon Gate! The enormous wooden pillars paired with the transparent glass Motenashi Dome make it instantly recognizable, and it has become Kanazawa’s most iconic city landmark. The gate stands 13.7 meters tall and was inspired by the drums used in Kanazawa’s traditional Noh theater. Its two massive wooden pillars use modern construction techniques, combining traditional charm with a contemporary feel. The Motenashi Dome above was designed around the idea of “holding up an umbrella for travelers,” reflecting Kanazawa’s rainy and snowy climate. On my first visit to Kanazawa, the station itself already made a lasting impression, so it’s no wonder it was selected as one of the world’s most beautiful train stations.
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