Right in the centre of Tokyo in the Chiyoda district, opposite Tokyo station lies the imperial palace (wp). It is the private residence of emperor Akihito (wp) and the imperial family. Only on rare occasions, such as the emperor’s birthday on December 23., the palace opens its doors to the public. I shall return here for this event, but in the meantime I came to visit the imperial palace gardens, which are open to the public most of the time.
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Tags: imperial palace, garden, nature, autumn colours

It is the first day of December and peak-season for watching the changing of the colours, so I decided to head out to Koishikawa Kokurakuen. This park is located in central Tokyo, in between tall buildings and overshadowed by Tokyo dome. But despite its central location and being besieged by the modern city, it has kept its original traditional feel.

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Tags: autumn colours, nature, garden

It is almost November, autumn has well and truly arrived and it is more than time for me to visit a japanese garden. Japanese gardens are truly something special, and should not be missed. Even if you are not into gardens, pick the best one or two and take some time to stroll through them, chances are you will be converted.full story ...

Tags: garden, tokyo

Yoyogi park in a very large park in the western part of central Tokyo. In itself it does not stand out for its botany or landscape but it is one of the largest green spaces in Tokyo. Many Tokyoites, make the most of this park on Sundays to play sports practice music, dance or martial arts. If you are lucky you may see some Elvis impressionists on Sunday afternoons here.full story ...

Tags: park , tokyo