Submitting a “Daily Schedule” in Japan is one of the requirements when applying for a Japan tourist visa. While preparing for it, I needed to visit Japan tourist websites and look for realistic 12-Day itinerary in Tokyo, and that’s how I learned about the Ueno Park and Zoo.

The weather was cold that time so I decided to wear a coat which I borrowed from Mica. Under it, I was only wearing a shirt and a leggings which made me chill every time the wind blows. I should have worn a long-sleeved base layer under the coat.

It was my first time in Tokyo area and I witnessed how most people dress up. Despite the cold weather, some Japanese girls of my age managed to wear skirts or shorts. I thought that if maybe I will live in a country like this, my skin will get used to the weather and soon be wearing skirt or shorts during spring or winter season.

Upon arriving at Ueno Station, the place was already jam-packed with tourists and locals on their way to Ueno Park.

I was enchanted that I finally saw cherry blossoms up close and personal. I was surprised that they were not pink. According to Josh, they were not full bloomed yet and not all trees has pink blossoms.

Spotted this group of tourist gathered for group picture taking. It seemed that they availed a package tour and were having fun spending their holiday in Japan. I can’t determine their nationality, though some look from Middle East and some from Western Countries.

Colorful flowers situated in front of the restroom. They looked fake but in fact they’re real. That’s one of  the amazing things in Japan, trees, flowers, and other plants are very well taken care of.

It’s like half of this photo was infrared because of the white blossoms. At the side of the streets, there were picnic blankets which soon occupied by tourists and locals.

Me and a better visualization of picnic blankets.

Finally saw a tree with pink blossoms. Although, it looked mature and petals be falling off soon.

Unlike in Singapore, I noticed that temples in Japan weren’t really that crowded or has few devotees. I then later found that religion isn’t really a practice or self-identification for most Japanese people.

In recent studies, 70% of Japanese people claim that they do not belong to any religion and instead, they enjoy the Freedom of Religion or also known as apostasy (abandonment of the religion by a person).

The other beautiful side of Ueno Park.

Not sure what bird was this, maybe a Japanese bird?

Not too long ago the water has invited ducks and Japanese cranes.

Random people encounter: (L) A dog master. (R) A drunk Japanese guy thrown into the water by his drunk friends. Alcohol drinking in public places is legal in the place during this season.

There were also a number of food stalls as we walked, mostly street foods, but Josh chose to have turkey leg. It was good!

Another temple that doesn’t have devotees.

Unlike in Manila and other parts of the Philippines, street beggars in Tokyo appear clean and well-poised. Straight body si kuya.

A Koreanovela photo effect under the cherry blossoms.

This cute grumpy kid! If you want to find out why he’s like that, read my short photo essay about him.

Picnic blankets were occupied by locals, and they drink! It is legal here! How come there are no police around. Japanese people must be very good in composing themselves even when drunk.

Lovely HHWW (holding hand while walking) couple. Their outfit matched!

You can also read my Tour with Cherry Blossoms at Ueno Park and Zoo Part II (soon)

Ueno Park and Zoo Tour Information: How to Get to Ueno Park and Zoo

Ueno Park is just next to JR Ueno Station. You can ride any Major JR Lines in Central Tokyo, and look for Ueno Station. Look for “Park Exit” sign once arrived in Ueno Station.