[Hidden Wonders of Japan] Lotus Flowers Embrace the Sun at Ueno Park

I frequently cycle from my home office near Oji to Akihabara. The quickest route takes me past Shinobazu-ike (Shinobazu Pond) on the west side of Ueno Park. But I always make a slight detour to ride along the edge of the pond — there is usually something interesting to photograph. And even if there is not, the chance to look at a pond and greenery is a refreshing change from the asphalt and concrete environment that marks most of my route. Depending on the season, the pond attracts large crowds who come to see sakura, ajisai (hydrangea), and hasu (lotus) blossoms.

*Unshaded lotus blossoms are open only during the morning. (© JAPAN Forward by Earl Kinmonth)*

The lotuses have been in bloom for several weeks and generally continue blooming until mid-August. The Pond is a short walk to the west from the JR Ueno Station and even closer from the Keisei Line Ueno Station. There is no admission charge, and wheelchair access is good. The Pond is not fenced, and the paths around and through it are flat and paved.

*Each lotus blossom lasts only 3 or 4 days. When the petals drop away, what remains is something that looks like a showerhead. (© JAPAN Forward by Earl Kinmonth)*

Rowboats and pedal boats can also be rented. These give a good view of the cherry blossoms in the spring but are confined to a part of the pond separate from the lotus area.

*The Bentendo temple in the middle of the pond has a rest area and is good for selfies and close-up photos of lotus blossoms.*

Prime Photo Spot

A boardwalk jutting into the lotus area allows close-up viewing and photography. Smartphone cameras can take high-quality photos, although I used a Canon EOS digital camera with a 55-250 mm zoom lens for those featured here.

*A boardwalk allows close-up photos of individual blossoms and a backdrop for selfies. (© JAPAN Forward by Earl Kinmonth)*

The earlier you go, the better. Lotus blossoms are open in the early morning but close as the day progresses.

*Lotus blossoms that are not shaded close as the day progresses. (© JAPAN Forward by Earl Kinmonth)*

While cherry blossoms symbolize Japan, lotus blossoms symbolize the Orient, especially Buddhism. Lotus blossoms are beauty that emerges from muck, just as enlightenment emerges from defilement.

Even if seeing the blossoms at Shinobazu-ike does not lead to enlightenment, you will come away refreshed.