Tokyo, 4/7/2010 - 4/10/2010, Part I

On the way back from Taipei during spring break, we stopped by Tokyo, Japan for 3 days. Because of flight schedule, we actually had only 2 whole days (4/8, and 4/9) for our adventure. In order to fully spent our time, I have done quite a bit of planning and adjusted the plan a couple of times based on suggestions from other blogs and my parents. Many thanks to my sister who made the reservation of a hotel in Shinjuku(新宿) for us from Taiwan. We are very pleased with the location and comfort of the hotel. Late March and early April is Tokyo's cherry blossom season. Depends on the weather, the cherry blossom can come and go within 2 weeks. We were very lucky to have two sunny and cool days to be able to enjoy cherry blossom viewing (Hanami). Here is our schedule for the two days:

Day 1 (4/8) - Asakusa Shrine(浅草 觀音寺), Nakamise Shopping Street (仲見世商店街), Ueno Park(上野公園), Akihabara(秋葉原), Imperior Palace(皇居), Kabukijo,Shinjuku(歌舞伎町,新宿).

Day 2 (4/9) - Meiji Shrine(明治神宮), Harajuku (原宿), Omotesando(表參道), Roppongi Hills(六 本木), Ginza(銀座).

and the Prictures:

First Meal, Soba (buckwheat noodle), at a Restaurant on 14th floor of Takashimaya Department store

From Taipei-Tokyo 2010

Famous Entrance at Asakusa Shrine. As a tourist, you just have to have your pictures taken under the giant lantern.

From Taipei-Tokyo 2010

Nakamise Shopping Street leading to Asakusa Shrine. Spent all the money before the worship and pray for more?

From Taipei-Tokyo 2010

Inside Asakusa Shrine.

From Taipei-Tokyo 2010

Famous Shrimp Tempura at Okuroya Restaruant near Asakusa Shrine. You have to be there before 11:30 am to avoid the lunch crowd.

From Taipei-Tokyo 2010

Cherry Blossom Way at Ueno Park. Another crowd.

From Taipei-Tokyo 2010

Shrine in Ueno Park

From Taipei-Tokyo 2010

Amay market street outside Ueno Park. You can find souvenir a lot cheaper here.

From Taipei-Tokyo 2010

More pics to come...