I woke up naturally
at 9am and had my 2 remaining bananas for breakfast before heading out. Today is going to be more of a slow and relaxing exploration, given that I'll start working tomorrow.
First stop, Yoyogi Park at Yoyogi station. It was around 10 minutes walk before I reached the park. The cloudy skies and cool 23 degrees made for a nice walk in the park. This park is one of the largest within Tokyo city and it's an entirely different world here. The noise and buzz of the city gave way to tranquility with the sound of wind and leaves all around. Dense vegetation is a common sight here and one would think it's rural Japan instead of a park smack right in the city centre.
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| girl in traditional wear |
The walk was therapeutic, with wide gravel stone pathways probably 20m wide. As it was late morning, there were not a lot of people yet. It was nice just being there, allowing the green air flow pass you. After a short walk, I arrived at Meji Shrine complex. This was apparently a good day for wedding as I saw 2 couples in traditional Japanese wear being photographed by almost everyone around. Talk about 15 minutes of fame! It was rather crowded, but with all Japanese establishments, it was very controlled and everyone was very polite.
I left the complex and ventured into a nearby Meiji Jingu Inner Garden. The entrance to this park leading to 清正井 was YEN 500. At first glance, it felt nothing special with almost wild plants growing everywhere. However, after 5 minutes of walk, the landscape began to change. The density of green gave way to light and a small little Japanese teahouse (Kakuun-tei). There was a koi pond filled with colorful kois, as well as floating lotus plants. I sat by the pond for 15 minutes to take in the serenity of the place. How I wished I could just have the moment frozen forever! It was another walk past a mini padi field to reach the sacred well.
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| Kakuun-tei |
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| 清正井 Sacred Well |
My next destination was The famous Harujuku, which was just within walking distance. This tiny neighborhood is Japan's forefront fashion leader, and the place to find cosplay at its best. Unfortunately I could only see 2 very minimalistic cosplayers. Still, a walk along Takeshita Street was amazing. This tiny narrow street was consistently crowded with people in both directions. And on both sides, quirky shops selling food, souvenirs and clothing. I found myself in the famous Daiso 100 YEN shop and got a few very cheap items! On my way to Shibuya, I chanced upon a procession that was both energetic and engaging.
Once I reached Shibuya, I dashed towards Ichiran for my 2nd experience. This time, I ordered Extra Rich soup with seaweed and vinegar, as well as extra noodles and pork slices. I was yet again left extremely satisfied! I won't see this shop until 6 months later....
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| my re-fill |
A quick stop at Fancl to help my sister get her cosmetics, I headed back to Shinagawa Prince Hotel to check in (again). This time to a bigger double bed room that's under corporate's costs. This is definitely a more comfortable room size with big window and a slightly bigger bathroom. No time to waste as I was only 15 min before the free shuttle leaves for Oedo Onsen.
I've arrived again back to Oedo Onsen, this time without the fever I had 6 months ago. My very tired body after days of carry heavy load and walking non stop greatly needed this relaxation. This time, I went for the outdoor foot soak, pretty much all the tubs in the male section (including outdoor). I even had the milk after the soak the Onsen had recommended. But this was an expensive affair and cost YEN 2,830, much more than the YEN 490 I paid for the neighborhood Onsen 2 nights earlier.
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| crowding for a performance |
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| outdoor foot soak |
I took the
7.20pm bus back to Shinagawa station and found myself a nice restaurant at the station. AW 5-5 is a Latin American theme restaurant that serves rather high end tapas. I had the Grilled beef rump with salsa sauce, mango sauce and garlic sauce, Shredded Lotus Root Kinpira with Balsamic Vinegar, and a mug of Mojito. Then it's back to my room for the night.
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