K i c h i j o j i

This is my 2nd winter break, after the trip to Seoul in December. It is also our first holiday away during the Lunar New Year period. Both of us loathe the CNY for various reasons, and we have been toying the idea to go away every year. Finally, we have the chance this year and we took flight on the eve (to escape).

We started Day 2 with a trip to Kichijoji, our favourite town outside Tokyo. The last time we were here, we only had a couple of hours as it was on the last day of the trip and we have a plane to catch home. This time, I made the visit as early in the itinerary as possible, so we could spend more time exploring the area. I simply love this place.

 From Kichijoji Station, we walked to Inokashira-onshi Park, which has a large pond surrounded by lush greens and cherry trees waiting for the ripe season to bloom.

 Weekends are especially crowded, regardless the seasons.

 Its a great day to paint and showcase the talent.

 Even the carps and ducks are enjoying the winter day.

 Row boats and paddle boats are available for rental.

 A family outing is well spent when everyone is having fun.

A romantic moment, and lots of ache the next day.

 Vendors peddling their sales at the street flea market.

 The park is a great place for picnics, and family bonding.

 Musicians here...

here...

 and here...

 Japanese love their pets, and don them with clothing to weather the cold.

 This Hachiko loves her pink outfit.

 Why made me wear this hat without a matching body suit?

 We wanted to visit the Ghibli Museum but unfortunately, did not have an entry ticket. 

 Entry ticket is pre-book, and you cannot walk-in hoping to be admitted.

 Spiral starcase. Round and round it goes.

 After the stroll at the park, time to hit the shopping street.

 Winter clothings are going on sale with the ending of the cold season.

 This shop has everything about frogs. Very interesting.

Fans of Anpanman may need one of these pillows.

It is February now, and approaching Spring soon. The day is sunny with little cloud, and I find it really pleasant to walk around in the cold weather. Although I have enough warm clothing, somehow I feel the weather in Tokyo is colder than I have expected. But that would not stop me from venturing into new destinations, and I am so looking forward to it in the next few days.

And another travel trip awaiting....