Christmas is not in tinsel and lights and outward show. The secret lies in an inner glow. It’s lighting a fire inside the heart. – Wilfred Peterson
My first thought was: For a non-Christian country, they take the Christmas season rather seriously. Growing up in the only Christian country in Asia: Philippines; Christmas held a very special place in my heart. It is after all, the birth of my savior. My Friend who gave up His life for mine: a Brother, a Father, a Protector and a Teacher.
Suffice to say that when I moved here in Japan, I was equipped with the idea that I would have to let go of all my excitement for Christmas and leave them in the Philippines. Given that they are predominantly believers of Shintoism and Buddhism and that Christmas Day is just a work day for them, I didn’t expect to see towering Christmas trees, my eyes swimming with seas of Christmas lights and mistletoes almost everywhere I go. Once again, it is true that traveling and living in another country will have your mind wide-open and broader. Join me as I wander the streets of Tokyo and find the free spots to enjoy your weekends this holiday season. Our adventure starts with Ebisu and Gotanda.
FOR THE ONE’S WHO LOVE THE SERENE & ROMANTIC WALKS BY THE RIVER : GOTONDA |
Address: 2 Chome-9-11 Higashigotanda, Shinagawa City, Tokyo 141-0022
Schedule:
■ Illumination period
November 8,2019 – January 5,2020
Access:
6 mins walk from Gotanda Station OR Osaki Station
MAP:
If you’re the kind of person who likes spending a quiet afternoon, sitting on a bench by the river and reading a book, sketching or introspecting about life then this Illumination spot is the perfect place for you: Minna No Illumination in Gotonda by the Meguro River.
The popular Cherry Blossom sightseeing spot is transformed at night by the pink glow of lights wrapped around the Sakura Trees. It’s like experiencing Spring time all over again, without the Hay fever. It was quite relaxing just walking by the river, listening to the flow of the water while sipping on a cup of hot chocolate.
There were some pop-up stores that sells hot chocolate and hot coffees as well as snacks. This place is also less crowded, which means more opportunity to just take it all in, have some perfect me-time or talking about life with your loved ones or friends.
- “Hanami” is a traditional Japanese custom of drinking sake and picnicking under the cherry blossom trees during the Spring Season.
- “Cherry Blossom Festival” is a symbol of friendship between Japan and the United States.
- Macon,, Georgia is home to 3000,000 Yoshino Cherry Blossom Trees making it the Cherry Blossom Capital of the world.
- Visit their website for their winter events and other information: http://www.minna-no-illumi.com
Next >>Your Complete Guide To Yomiuri Land Illumination 2019
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MORE ABOUT JAPAN DESTINATIONS HERE: Popular Cafes – Japan Destination
