Sunday, June 15, 2008

Japan Trip Photos - Part 3 & Final (Ueno)

This will be the final part of the photos that i took during my trip to Japan in Apr 08. It was the last day of my trip that I visited Ueno Park, hoping to spot some cheery blossoms. I was not hopeful at first because I was there at the end of cherry blossom season i Tokyo. Moreover, Tokyo was raining for the past few days, where those blossoms would have been shed by rain. However, I was fortunate enough to spot a few of the remaining ones and these cherry blossoms are truly beautiful and gorgeous!
Only those cherry tress surrounding the shrine were still blossoming. Is this some kind of Divine power, as the rest of those tress at Park have already shed their flowers?


My wish to Japan to see cherry blossoms has finally come true. I felt so thankful.

Cherry Blossoms at closer look

Alerting the divine for their prayers


Imagine if all these cheery trees were blossoming, I am sure the scenery would be utmost beautiful. No wonder the Japaneses like to have picnics surrounded by these blossoms in Spring.

I do not know what blossoms are these, but they are equally stunning for far and at closer look.



Some other flowers were still blossoming at the Ueno Park



Tulip flower


I also went to the Ueno Zoo to visit my favorite animal - Kuma-san (Mr Bear), especially the Giant Panda and Polar bears

I took this picture of a Phoenix while queuing for my turn to see the Giant Panda

An llama

Cute but ferocious Polar bear


It reminded me of Iorik - the Bear King in The Golden Compass



Hokkaido Black bears - Oh, I like
Notice the yellow collar on these Black bears?

These two Brown Bears are taking a nap, so adorable and hugable!

These Brown Bears did not sleep in very tasteful sleeping position. Ha ha! Wonder if it was a make or female who leaved up his / her leg.

Sun Bear, which is an endangered spices in Malaysia

The Raccoon Dog. Despite its name, it belong to the bear family.

The Red Panda, equally adorable. In fact, i bought both the Red Panda and Giant Panda soft toys at the zoo. Believe me, these toys were not cheap but worth as remembrance of my experience there.



The Highlight of my visit to the Ueno Park Zoo - a glimpse of the Giant Panda. I want one!

Wednesday, June 11, 2008

Japan Trip Photos - Part 2 (ASAKUSA, TOKYO)

Some photos that i took at Asakusa, Tokyo, Japan

The Gate to Asakusa, a giant lantern and a prominent landmark
Woodwork underneath the Lantern
Nuts, good to go with beers

Delicious snacks




Deep fried rice cookies

Vendor making rice cookies

Chef making some desserts with red bean as filling

Japanese Masks

Wind Chimes - I bought one for my mom.

Kids playing

Another chef making dessert

Little lanterns as souvenirs

Key chains







Entrance / Gate to Asakusa temple


Lighting up an joss stick


We have to clean our hands before entering any temple

Street at Asakusa


Japanese ladies in traditional clothes




Japanese youths