Ueno meet Hie

I hope you enjoyed my last Sakura post at Chidorigafuchi. This week I'm bringing you another beautiful Sakura viewing spot perfect for a picnic under the blossom. We took to Ueno park last Saturday to catch the tail end of the Sakura, but to our pleasant surprise all the trees were still in full bloom and showed no signs of leaving just yet. We'd originally wanted to bring some lunch and have a little picnic under the trees but the weather really wasn't on our side that day. That being said, rain didn't stop hundreds of other people descending on Ueno Park to picnic under the blossom!

Ueno Park

Ueno Park is one of the most popular sakura viewing spots because it's so easy to access from the metro station and you can set up camp from day to night. More than 1000 cherry blossom trees flower in this 133 acre park, so expect crowds which I think only add to the vibe of the season. Ueno Park is also famous for several of Tokyo's most popular museums, such as the Tokyo National Museum and the Science Museum, as well as being home to Ueno Zoo. You won't be at a loss for things to do here even if you visit Tokyo after Sakura season!

How to get there

You can reach Ueno Park from Ueno station on the Ginza or Hibiya metro lines.

Hie Shrine 

Our second stop of the day was to Hie Shrine where you'll find the tunnel of red torii gates photographed above. Although these aren't images of the shrine itself, I couldn't help but be drawn in by the vibrancy of the red torii gates, as stark a contrast as you can get to the grey concrete and corporate life beyond. Torii gates mark the entrance to a Shinto shrine, a dwelling of Shinto Gods, and represent the dichotomy of sacred-profane.

How to get there

Hie Shrine is found in Akasaka, a short 10 minute walk from either Akasaka or Tameike-Sanno metro station. The torii gate tunnel is found on the West entrance to the shrine.

Sunglasses, Aland | top and kimono, H&M | trousers, Zara | boots, Office

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