Ueno Koen Park is a shining example of the lush greenery that can be found in Japan which isn't too close to home if you are staying in Tokyo. Flanked by various temples and shrines, the park is a great way to get in touch with nature in any season (though if you are visiting in the summer, please remember sunscreen). Another highlight is the aforementioned museums. There are 6 in total ranging from art, culture and science with special events being held year round. During my stay, there was an exhibition in the royal art museum celebrating the 10th anniversary of sword art online: a widely popular anime series.

Regardless of how many times I go to Ueno Koen, I never tire from strolling along its paths and taking in the sights. As the scenery changes with the seasons, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The park is home to several museums, including the Tokyo National Museum as well as the Kiyomizu Kannon-do temple (a copy of the Kiyomizudera temple in Kyoto, but still worth visiting as there is a cool pine tree that's called the "pine tree of the moon") and Ueno Toshogu Shrine (dedicated to the memory of Tokugawa Ieyasu). Visitors can also see pandas at the Ueno Zoo, but with Ameya Yokocho (a haven for foods and shopping) a short walk away, these two places made Ueno one of my favorite places to visit in Tokyo.