Yoyogi 1st National Gymnasium

Meiji Shrine, located in Shibuya, Tokyo, Japan, is a Shinto shrine built to commemorate Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. It is one of Tokyo's most iconic Shinto sacred sites. Covering an area of approximately 70 hectares, the shrine is surrounded by a dense forest, offering a tranquil and natural atmosphere—a spiritual oasis in the bustling city. For an in-depth visit, start at the main gate, the 'torii,' and stroll along the gravel path to the main hall. After paying your respects, explore the various auxiliary and subordinate shrines within the grounds, such as the Treasure Museum, which provides insights into the history and culture of the Meiji era. Besides shrine visits, tourists can enjoy seasonal flowers like maple leaves and cherry blossoms in the Meiji Jingu Gaien, write wishes on 'ema' plaques, or purchase protective charms. It is recommended to allocate about 2 to 3 hours for the visit, during which you can admire traditional Japanese architecture, lush greenery, and serene streams, experiencing the harmony of history and nature. The shrine is easily accessible via JR Harajuku Station or Tokyo Metro Meiji-Jingumae Station, both within walking distance. Meiji Shrine is not only a religious site but also a destination that combines historical education, natural beauty, and urban relaxation, making it a perfect spot for an immersive travel experience.

Just touched down in Tokyo and Kyoto—two cities where pop culture, street food, and peaceful shrines collide 🇯🇵✨. Harajuku’s Takeshita St is a must for wild street fashion, plus it’s open all day at 1 Chome Jingumae, Shibuya. Grab a rainbow crepe and snap some neon photos! Art lovers, don’t skip the Ōta Memorial Museum of Art (1 Chome-10-10 Jingumae)—open 10:30–17:30 most days except Tuesday. Yoyogi 1st National Gymnasium (2 Chome-1-1 Jinnan) is iconic for its architecture: pop in from 09:00–23:00 weekdays or 07:30–23:00 weekends if there’s an event! Harajuku itself is legendary for people-watching and Tokyo’s best thrift shop hauls. Then head to Omotesando Hills (4 Chome-12-10 Jingumae, open 11:00–20:00), a slick mall perfect for chilling amid designer boutiques and gourmet bites. Tokyo shrines are my top zen hack—especially Hatonomori Hachiman Shrine. Soak up the peaceful vibes and recharge before diving back into the bustle. Pro tip: respect the shrine etiquette—bow before entering, don’t walk in the center, and snap photos only where allowed. Getting Around: Use Suica/PASMO cards for fast metro rides. Most places are walkable, with Omotesando and Harajuku connected via street lanes—don’t bother with taxis, save those yen for dessert! Eats: Try the crepes on Takeshita St, and check Omotesando’s basement for ramen or fancy pastries. Weather & Tips: Pack layers—Tokyo’s climate swings! Cash is still king, but big spots take cards. #TokyoDays #KyotoTrails #HarajukuVibes #JapanStreetEats #tripdotcom

This year marks my first trip to Japan during the cherry blossom season. I've always wanted to travel during this time, but the airfare has always been prohibitively expensive. This time, I managed to snag a last-minute deal with Scoot Airlines for a round-trip ticket from Taipei to Tokyo for just 8,900 TWD. If you find cherry blossom season tickets to Japan for under 10,000 TWD, don't hesitate—just book them! Within a month, I purchased my tickets, booked accommodations, confirmed insurance, and finalized my itinerary. I feel so efficient! 👍🏻 This is also my first solo trip. I wanted to savor the beauty of each destination, let go of daily worries, and engage in self-reflection. Slowing down allowed me to relieve stress and tension, and I didn't have to match anyone else's pace. If I got tired, I could simply return to the hotel to rest. Traveling with friends has its own joys, but solo travel offers a unique sense of healing. 🌟 Travel Goal: Cherry blossom viewing, including night sakura 🌸 🌟 Departure Date: Tuesday, March 25, 2025 🌟 Return Date: Saturday, March 29, 2025 🗓️ Itinerary: (Cherry blossom-related activities are marked with a 🌸 symbol.) 2025.03.27 Day 3: 1.-3. Please refer to the previous sections: "2025.03.27 Cherry Blossom Season Tokyo Solo Trip: Day 3 Itinerary (Part 1 & Part 2)" 4. 2:00 PM Yoyogi Park 🌸 🌟 Venue Information: Yoyogi Park 📍 Address: 2 Jinnan, Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0052, Japan 🈺 Hours: Open year-round 💰 Cost: Free of charge 💞 Why Visit: Yoyogi Park is one of Tokyo's most popular cherry blossom viewing spots, offering several unique features worth exploring. ⸻ Basic Features: (1) Convenient Location Yoyogi Park is located in Shibuya, close to Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Omotesando. It's about a 3-minute walk from Harajuku Station. (2) Spacious Area The park spans approximately 540,000 square meters, making it one of the largest urban parks in central Tokyo. Its open space feels expansive and not overcrowded. (3) Open 24/7 and Free Entry The park is open all day and free to enter, making it an excellent choice for cherry blossom viewing or enjoying a tranquil morning/evening atmosphere. ⸻ 🌸 Cherry Blossom Highlights: (1) Diverse Cherry Blossom Varieties The park features over 600 cherry trees, primarily Somei Yoshino, Yamazakura, and Oshima cherry trees, along with early-blooming varieties like Kawazu cherry trees. (2) Blooming Period Cherry blossoms typically bloom from late March to early April, with peak bloom depending on the year's weather conditions. (3) Multiple Viewing Spots Recommended spots include: • Central Lawn: The main cherry blossom viewing area with concentrated trees and stunning scenery. • Cherry Blossom Garden and Hill Plaza: Great for photos and varied landscapes. • Water Corridor Pathways: Lined with cherry trees, perfect for a scenic stroll. (4) Ideal for Picnics and Gatherings The park's expansive lawns make it a popular spot for cherry blossom picnics and springtime gatherings. Many visitors bring picnic mats to enjoy the festive atmosphere. (5) Crowds and Atmosphere Due to its prime location and popularity, the park can get crowded during cherry blossom season, especially in the afternoons or on weekends. Early mornings or evenings are quieter and offer softer lighting for photography or a more serene experience. ⸻ 💡 Tips & Reminders: • Arrive Early: To secure a good spot and avoid crowds, mornings are ideal. • Bring Essentials: Picnic mats, sunscreen, and trash bags are useful for sitting on the grass and picnicking. Note that the park has a carry-out-your-trash policy. • Check Weather and Bloom Forecasts: Cherry blossom blooming periods can vary slightly depending on the temperature. 🌸 This article covers the third day's itinerary of my cherry blossom season solo trip. Stay tuned for the next part of the journey!

Ready for a high-energy Tokyo adventure? 🚀 I hit up Harajuku’s buzzy side plus a chill park oasis in one epic day! Start at Yoyogi Park (2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya) — open 24/7, it’s perfect for morning walks and picnic vibes. Slide into Tokyo’s youth universe on Takeshita St (1 Chome Jingumae, Shibuya), always open and totally wild for street fashion, rainbow crepes, and quirky shops. For culture, the Ōta Memorial Museum of Art (1 Chome-10-10 Jingumae, Shibuya) is open Wed–Mon, 10:30–17:30, showing off iconic ukiyo-e prints — super worth your time if you love art. Sports and architecture fans: don’t miss Yoyogi 1st National Gymnasium (2 Chome-1-1 Jinnan, Shibuya), open Mon–Fri 09:00–23:00, Sat–Sun from 07:30. The futuristic look is photogenic and there’s often events happening. If you crave that “old Tokyo” feel, make quick stops at Hatonomori Hachiman Shrine (1 Chome-1-24 Sendagaya, 09:00–17:00) and Yoyogi Hachimangu Shrine, both relaxing and photogenic. Harajuku itself is a must; stroll around for local boutiques and snap street style inspo. Pro tip: Most spots around Harajuku are walkable, but the JR Yamanote Line gets you close to everything fast. Grab a Suica card to save cash and skip ticket machines. Street food in Harajuku is a win—try the tempura sweet potato at a takeaway stand, and don’t skip the crepe stalls for a sugar rush. Weather can change quick, so layer up, especially for park time. No visa needed for most tourists, but bring some cash for snacks—cards don’t always work in small shops! #TokyoDays #HarajukuStreetStyle #JapanTrip #TravelTips #YoyogiPark

Feelin’ the neon vibes? 🌃 This itinerary hits Tokyo’s coolest neighborhoods (think: Takeshita St’s rainbow crepes + the wild style of Harajuku), plus iconic stops like Yoyogi Park and Tokyo Disneyland in Urayasu—perfect for pop culture lovers and chill explorers alike! Top Spots to Visit: 1. Takeshita St – 1 Chome Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001 (Open all day, all year): Candy shops, vintage stores, Instagrammable food—don’t skip the crepes 🍓 2. Yoyogi 1st National Gymnasium – 2 Chome-1-1 Jinnan, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0041 (07:30–23:00 weekends, 09:00–23:00 weekdays): Snap futuristic architecture pics, especially if there’s an event on! 3. Omotesando Hills – 4 Chome-12-10 Jingumae, Shibuya, Tokyo 150-0001 (11:00–20:00): High-end shops with indie Japanese brands and arty window displays. 4. Harajuku (Jingumae): The hub for wild street fashion—explore alleys for surprise thrift finds. 5. Yoyogi Park – 2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya, Tokyo 151-0052 (Open all day, all year): Locals go here for jogs, dog walks or sakura picnics (cherry blossom season is next-level!). 6. Shibuya: Crowded crosswalk, mega-screen lights, street eats; hit Hachiko statue for a photo. 7. Tokyo Disneyland (Urayasu): Get there early for shorter lines (and wear comfy shoes—you’ll walk A LOT). Personal Tips 🚀 Go out early for Takeshita St before it’s packed. Have cash—some shops don’t accept cards. Yoyogi Park is best for chill & recharge; bring snacks! Use Tokyo’s trains: Tap in with an IC card (Suica/Pasmo—buy at airport/train station). Easy, cheap, and way faster than taxis. For shopping, you’ll see tax-free signs—bring your passport! Food recs: Try Harajuku crepes, Shibuya ramen, and Omotesando’s fancy pastries. Vegan options are popping up, but check the menus. Key tip: Weather changes fast in Tokyo! Light jacket and umbrella = pro move. #TokyoVibes #DisneylandMagic #HarajukuStyle #JapanTravel

Ready for an urban adventure? Here’s my fresh Tokyo itinerary featuring art, street culture, peaceful parks, and hidden shrines 💫🏙️ Must-See Spots in Tokyo: 1. Takeshita Street (1 Chome Jingumae, Shibuya) – The heart of quirky fashion and sweet treats; open all day so you can go anytime! Tip: Grab a crepe and dive into vintage shops early to avoid crowds 🍦👚 2. Ōta Memorial Museum of Art (1-10-10 Jingumae, Shibuya City) – Delightful ukiyo-e art, open 10:30–17:30 except Tuesday. Check the calendar for cool exhibitions! Pro tip: Go right when they open for quiet viewing. 3. Yoyogi Park (2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya) – Chill in lush greenery, picnic with locals, or catch a street performance. Open all day, perfect for early birds or sunset seekers 🌳 4. Yoyogi 1st National Gymnasium (2-1-1 Jinnan, Shibuya) – Snap photos of this iconic architectural gem. Open from 09:00 (Mon–Fri) or 07:30 (Sat–Sun) till 23:00. 5. Harajuku (Jingumae, Shibuya) – For a full blast of Tokyo street style and anime vibes. Wander through wild storefronts and don't miss Cat Street nearby for indie boutiques. 6. Hatonomori Hachiman Shrine & Yoyogi Hachimangu Shrine – Discover tradition tucked behind busy streets; peaceful, uncrowded, and photogenic. Travel Hacks: Use Tokyo Metro for fast, cheap trips between all these spots (get a day pass for savings!). Tap your Suica card at convenience stores and vending machines, too. Most major sights are walkable from Harajuku Station. Food Rec: Try rainbow cotton candy or fluffy pancakes on Takeshita. For ramen, AFURI Harajuku is top tier (best yuzu broth!). Extra Tips: Carry cash for tiny shops. Spring/fall are ideal for weather. Buy tickets for museums on-site and avoid Mondays (some places close!). #TokyoVibes #HiddenShrines #HarajukuStyle #JapanFoodie #tripdotcom