Fushimi-inari Shrine
Crape and ice cream vendor in Harajuku refers to cherry blossom viewing , and it is a time when the Japanese celebrate with parties and feasts .
At night Hanami viewing is known as Yozakura . There is a wistful feeling associated with these celebrations , and one phenomenon that is easily recognized by the traveler is that the blossoms are short-lived ; unlike most early spring growth . It is such a special time .
There are many treats waiting for you during your visit to Japan . Your port of entry will be Tokyo . A handful of cities throughout the world have a quality , a sense of being , that molds their distinct personalities . Tokyo is one of these cities . Everywhere you look you will be fascinated by the blending of old and new , East and West .
After a few hours of rest from your trip , where will you visit ? Well , we suggest the following : Have a look at the Asakusa district , which is considered the heart of old downtown , and particularly the Asakusa Kannon Temple which is a Buddhist place of worship . A second must-see is the Ueno- Koen area which has some of Japan ’ s best museums as well as temples and shrines . You might also take the opportunity to visit the
Tokyo National Museum , which boasts the world ’ s largest selection of Japanese art .
During your second day in Tokyo , visit the Meiji Shrine , dedicated to the deified spirits of the first Emperor of modern Japan , Emperor Meiji , and his consort the Empress Shōken .
Or , if you are of another mindset , you could enjoy shopping . Tokyo is a shopper ’ s paradise . It has the most modern malls in Asia . If you are hooked on brands , head down to Shinjuku , one of the biggest malls in Asia , where a huge variety of fashion and digital products await . Young professionals enjoy shopping at Shibuya , while Harajuku is
SPRING 2017 31 FLYWASHINGTON . COM