Ueno Park is one of the famous
hanami spots in Tokyo and definitely one of the most crowded. I decided to check it out on Saturday evening, which was supposedly the first night they have illumination. As the train approached Ueno station, I already saw a sea of people down below in the streets. From above, the crowds looked like an insanely packed mosh pit.
My friend and I followed the crowds and entered the park. Most of the cherry blossoms were already in full bloom (or almost in full bloom). The trees created a gorgeous canopy of whites and pinks above the endless stream of faces.
Red and white lanterns ran parallel to the long path lined with cherry blossom trees. Groups of people had already claimed their territory under the trees, eating festival food and getting intoxicated.
The trees looked so grand with their long branches and glorious blossoms spreading across the park. The atmosphere was lively and festive.
As we walked toward the pond area, we discovered one of the food areas. The pathway was lined with
yattai and packed with people. We entered the war zone and got some good festival food (ie.
jaga bataa, yakitori, oden, yakisoba, etc.).
This reminded me of the festivals in the summer, except there are beautiful flowers all around instead of fireworks in the sky. Delicious aromas, night lights, great food, crowds of people enjoying themselves...Gotta love Japanese festivals.
The only thing that was a little disappointing was the "illumination." A lot of trees weren't lit up! Unless they meant the lanterns that lined the path of cherry trees, which didn't really light up the blossoms. After Ueno, I hopped over to Kudanshita to see the cherry blossoms at Chidorigafuchi, another amazing
hanami spot (next blog).
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