I can’t believe that this is already my fourth post this semester! Today, I decided to talk about one of my more recent additions to my bucket list: Tokyo! When one of my best friends visited the capital of Japan earlier this year, her descriptions of the bright lights and bustling streets juxtaposing the amazing culture seemed straight out of Fast and Furious. There is something in cities that is soothing to me: the constant fast-paced way of life and an unlimited amount of opportunities and experiences. Tokyo checked all of those boxes and more! Like the rest of my posts so far, Tokyo provides thrilling adventures with a beautiful, rich cultural background.
There are so many attractions that I could never write about all of them, but one that really caught my eye was Senso-ji, one of the oldest temples in Tokyo. Built in 645 AD, the Buddhist temple is dedicated to Kannon, the goddess of compassion. Why? It has to do with 2 brothers and a legend of a returning statue.
What really steals the thunder is the Kaminari-mon Gate that is red as a fire engine. The outer gates of the temple catch your eye not only because of the bright color, but also the gigantic lantern that is inscribed with “Thunder Gate.” A worthy name for something so big and powerful.
Many already know that Japan is famous for cherry blossom (sakura) trees with only a mere 600 species. In fact, the cherry blossoms we are used to seeing in Washington DC are actually a gift from the country to solidify the alliance between the US and Japan. But, if you ever want to see the flowers bloom in their native land, check out Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden that has over a 1000 sakura trees. A bit off the beaten path from the hustle and bustle of the city, the garden offers a beautiful oasis to breathe in the fresh air and live in the moment.
Doing a total 180, if you’re in Tokyo because you want to feel like you are in a city, you need to check out Shibuya Crossing and Ginza. Both will make you feel like you are transported to NYC! Shibuya Crossing is one of the largest and busiest pedestrian intersections in the world with as many as 3,000 people crossing at once. After marveling at this incredible feat, grab a bus or train to Ginza, Tokyo’s premier shopping district for all things glitz and glam.
Even if you don’t like shopping at the over 240 trendy stores, there is still something for everyone. Art galleries, night clubs, restaurants and countless billboards that make Times Square look tiny. Even history buffs will enjoy learning that 5 ancient roads connecting Japan’s major cities all met in the center of Ginza when it was a commercial center for the country.
Even though it is a recent addition, I cannot wait until I can finally see this city with my own eyes. It sounds unbelievable that such a high-tech city has so much history and culture which makes me wonder: does Tokyo make history, or does history make Tokyo?
This post makes me want to travel to Tokyo! I think you did a great job at incorporating some figures of speech and you added flavor to your writing with questions. Overall it was short and sweet and a great post!