Speaking of Ueno, the area is home to a number of tourist spots that even Japanese people like to visit, such as Ameyoko and Ueno Zoological Park. Among them, the most popular place for foreign tourists is a place where they can enjoy Japanese culture, art and food.After strolling through Ameyoko, which is always bustling with activity and a great place to eat around, and filling your stomach, you can visit Ueno Onshi Park, which is only a three-minute walk away.
Experience nature in Ueno’s famous “Ueno Onshi Park”.
Opened in October 1873, Ueno Onshi Park has a history of over 140 years and is one of Japan’s premier urban parks. The park covers an area of 538,506.96 m² and is dotted with museums and art galleries where visitors can get a taste of traditional culture and art.
Ueno Park, which boasts a large area, is also rich in nature with ginkgo trees, camphor trees, zelkova trees and cherry trees. Strolling around the park while listening to the scent of trees and the rustle of the trees will give you a soothing and comfortable feeling.
In spring, about 800 cherry trees bloom in profusion, and people come from all over Japan to enjoy the cherry blossoms. It has been known as a cherry blossom viewing spot since the Edo period, and nearly 3.3 million people visit here during the cherry blossom viewing season.
You can capture not only the cherry blossoms in full bloom, but also a picture with shrines and halls, such as those of Ueno Toshogu Shrine and Kiyomizu Kannondou, in the background to create a uniquely Japanese atmosphere.
In summer, admire the lotus flowers in Shinobazu Pond, and from late June to July, hydrangeas add color and charm to the rainy, sad scene.
Autumn is the season when the autumn leaves are in full bloom. Ginkgo and maple trees are at their peak in November. If you want to see the autumn foliage, aim for late October or November.
In winter, the gorgeous dark pink flowers called sasanqua bloom around January, and the contrast between them and the snow-covered flowers is breathtaking. This is the season when the snow covers the entire area, creating a different impression of serenity and solemnity that cannot be felt in any other season.
Sights to see
Selection of must-see sights in Ueno Onshi Park
Ueno Onshi Park has more to offer than just the changing nature with the seasons. There are plenty of historical and cultural sites where you can spend a day and get to know Japan.
There are two museums in Ueno Onshi Park, the Tokyo National Museum and the National Science Museum. The Tokyo National Museum is a great place to learn about history and culture, and the National Science Museum is a great place to visit if you’re interested in biology and science.
If you’re not sure which museum to visit, you should visit the Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum. In addition to exhibitions of Eastern and Western art, there are also exhibitions of calligraphy and works by great writers.
After admiring the art, you can stop by nearby Ueno Toshogu Shrine. On the way, you can see the five-story pagoda of the old Kan’eiji Temple, and you will be overwhelmed by the unique Japanese structures that are worth seeing. Take one shot from a distance and another as looking up from below and notice the difference in their expressions.
Access to Ueno Onshi Park
5-20 Ueno-koen, Taito City, Tokyo
Ueno StationJR LinePark Exit5 min on foot
Parking around Ueno Onshi Park
Ueno Onshi Park Official Website
Official Site：https://www.kensetsu.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/jimusho/toubuk/ueno/index_top.html