Ueno Tosho-gu | Review by 王小鈞

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Ueno Tosho-gu

Said to Bring Fortune to Competitions, and a Must-See Beautiful and Elegant Shrine.

4 Nov 2026 See More

When I arrived in Ueno, I thought I shouldn't spend the whole time rushing from place to place by train. Since I don't get to visit Tokyo often, I decided to explore slowly on foot and see what different scenery I might find along the way.

As I walked, I unexpectedly came across Ueno Tosho-gu. Since I'd made it there, of course I had to stop and take a look!

The large torii gate at the entrance has an impressive presence. Surrounded by tall trees, the entire area has a peaceful and solemn atmosphere that's very different from Ueno's bustling streets.

Ueno Tosho-gu is dedicated to Tokugawa Ieyasu, and it's said that people can pray here for victory and good luck. It's also a historic shrine within Ueno Park. Unfortunately, I hadn't planned to go inside this time, so I could only walk around the outside, take some photos, and admire the traditional architecture.

Although it was just a place I happened to come across during my trip, it added an unexpected surprise to my walk around Ueno. That's the thing about traveling—sometimes when you don't plan everything, you end up finding places that leave a lasting impression!

Other Reviews by 王小鈞

Ueno Park

Ueno Park, officially known as "Ueno Onshi Park," is located in Taito Ward, Tokyo. Managed by the Tokyo Metropolitan Construction Bureau, the park spans an impressive area of 530,000 square meters and has a rich history.
- Ueno, Nippori
- Parks & Gardens
4 Nov 2026 See More

On this trip to Ueno, Tokyo, I specifically set aside some time to walk around Ueno Park. As soon as I entered the park, I felt that the environment was really pleasant, with large green trees, wide paths, and plenty of people strolling and relaxing. It’s truly a peaceful escape in the middle of the bustling city.

Ueno Park is a very famous cherry blossom viewing spot in Tokyo. Unfortunately, this visit wasn’t during cherry blossom season, so I didn’t get to see the trees in full bloom. I can only hope to come back and enjoy them next time.

Near the pond, I also saw people taking sightseeing boats out on the water. It looked quite relaxing! However, a separate ticket is required, so I didn’t plan to take a boat this time and simply walked around the area.

I didn’t really have any particular itinerary planned. Just strolling through the park and enjoying the surrounding scenery felt very relaxing.

Ueno Zoo, various cultural attractions, and lively shopping streets are also nearby, so you can visit them together. It’s also nice to come here for a walk after a meal. It’s a place worth stopping by!
Shinobazu Pond

Shinobazu Pond, a natural pond spanning about 2 kilometers in circumference, is situated at the southern end of Ueno Park, Japan's first urban park covering an extensive area of about 530,000 square meters. The name "Shinobazu Pond" is said to originate from the area once known as Shinobazu Hill, located between the Ueno and Hongo plateaus (there are various theories).
- Ueno, Nippori
- Nature Spots
4 Nov 2026 See More

When visiting Ueno Park, of course you should also stop by Shinobazu Pond! I found it very pleasant here. The pond is expansive and surrounded by green trees, creating a striking contrast with the lively, busy streets of central Tokyo. Unfortunately, I didn’t visit during lotus blooming season, so I missed out on some of the romantic scenery I had been looking forward to.

The area around the pond was still lively, though, with rowboats, pedal boats, and swan boats available to rent. Watching everyone leisurely boating across the pond and enjoying the sunshine and breeze really felt like being on vacation.

Sometimes slowing down during a trip, without rushing through an itinerary, and simply taking in the scenery and experiencing how local people live is also a wonderful way to travel.
Inokashira Park

Inokashira Park, stretching across Musashino City and Mitaka City in Tokyo, opened in 1917 as the first imperial gift park in Japan, and celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2017.
- Kichijoji, Mitaka
- Parks & Gardens
4 Nov 2026 See More

If you’re visiting Kichijoji, of course you should also make time for a walk around Inokashira Park! As soon as I entered the park, I was drawn in by all the greenery. Tall trees surround the area, along with beautifully maintained plants, making the whole environment feel especially pleasant.

This park, which has a history of more than 100 years, was Japan’s first park gifted by the Imperial Family. After walking around it, I really loved the relaxed atmosphere. Along the way, I saw many locals walking, jogging, and exercising, while others sat leisurely in the shade to rest. It feels like this place is simply part of their everyday lives.

The park is quite large and very well maintained. It’s relaxing just to stroll around and take photos. There are also temples, shrines, and plenty of restaurants nearby that you can visit at the same time.

Compared with Tokyo’s busy, bustling streets, I prefer places like this that are full of greenery and let you slow down. You don’t need any special plans. Simply taking a walk here feels very soothing!