Highlights and access methods of Ueno Park (Tokyo Prefecture)
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Ueno Onshi Park is one of the oldest parks in Japan, housing facilities like Ueno Zoo and Tokyo National Museum within its premises. Known as a prime cherry blossom viewing spot, the park bustles with visitors during the sakura bloom season. Furthermore, visitors can enjoy boat rides on Shinobazu Pond within the park, and during summer, witness the pond blanketed with blooming lotus flowers. The park is also famous for a statue of Saigo Takamori, affectionately referred to as "Ueno's Saigo-san".
In this article, we will explain the attractions of Ueno Park in Tokyo Prefecture and how to access it for those who are traveling to Japan from overseas.
(Last modified: )
(Prefecture : Tokyo , Category : Parks and Gardens)
Table of contents
Highlights of Ueno Park
Ueno Onshi Park, opened in the 6th year of Meiji (1873), is one of the oldest parks in Japan. After becoming government-owned land following the Meiji Restoration, it was bestowed to the city of Tokyo at the time via the Imperial Household Agency, which is why it was given the name "Onshi," meaning imperial gift. Generally, it is referred to as Ueno Park. The park houses various facilities such as Ueno Zoo, Tokyo National Museum, and the National Museum of Western Art.
Shinobazu Pond is a lake approximately 2km in circumference within Ueno Park, and it contains Bentendo Temple on its central island, Benten Island. Moreover, pathways to Benten Island divide the pond into three sections: Lotus Pond, which is filled with lotus flowers; Boat Pond, where you can enjoy boat rides; and Cormorant Pond, inhabited by many birds. In Lotus Pond, from July to August, lotus flowers bloom in abundance, marking the best time to view them. However, please note that lotus flowers only open in the morning.
Ueno Park is also renowned for its cherry blossoms. During the blooming period of the 800 cherry trees in the park, it's bustling with many hanami (flower-viewing) visitors. At night, you can enjoy the cherry blossoms illuminated by 800 traditional lanterns. It's also enjoyable to watch the cherry blossoms while rowing a boat on Shinobazu Pond's Boat Pond.
Ueno Park is home to several precious structures, including the statue of Saigo Takamori, known affectionally as "Ueno's Saigo-san", the Ueno Great Buddha which only preserves the face of the Buddha, Ueno Toshogu Shrine, and Kiyomizu Kannon-do Temple. When visiting places like Ueno Zoo, please take the time to stroll around Ueno Park.
Address and access method of Ueno Park
The address of Ueno Park is "Ueno Park, Taito-ku, Tokyo". The nearest station is Ueno Station on the JR Yamanote Line. It is a 2 minute walk from the station. Or Keisei Ueno Station on the Keisei Main Line. 1 minute walk from the station.
Attractions near Ueno Park
Several notable attractions are located near Ueno Park:
Ameyoko Shopping Street
This open-air market located south of Ueno station offers a wide range of goods such as clothes, fresh food, and souvenirs at reasonable prices. It's a great place to experience the hustle and bustle of local life.
Yanaka Ginza
Known as Tokyo's old town, Yanaka Ginza retains the charm of past decades. The shopping street has various small shops that sell traditional goods, snacks, and crafts.
Tokyo National Science Museum
This museum is perfect for families and anyone interested in science. It features a wide range of exhibits on natural history and technology.
Asakusa
A short distance away, Asakusa is home to the famous Sensoji Temple and Nakamise Shopping Street. It's an area where you can experience traditional Japanese culture and enjoy street food.
Other information about Ueno Park
Official site about Ueno Park :
https://www.kensetsu.metro.tokyo.lg.jp/jimusho/toubuk/ueno/index_top.html
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Thank you for reading to the end.
( Written by Tatsuo Ikura )
