So today, our tour officially began. We finally met our tour mates, and they all seemed like such a happy, easygoing bunch. It already feels like the start of a fun trip.
First stop is the Meiji Shrine. I walked into Meiji Shrine through its huge wooden gate, and suddenly Tokyo felt far away. The path was quiet, lined with tall trees, and the whole place had this calm energy that made me slow down without even trying. Nothing dramatic happened, but the peacefulness of the place stayed with me. It felt like a deep breath in the middle of the city.
In the middle of the grounds, I saw the famous marriage tree, and not long after, I actually saw a couple getting married at the shrine. It made the whole place feel even more special and meaningful.
Shichi-go-san (Seven-Five-Three) is a Japanese celebration for children, officially on November 15, where parents take their 3, 5, or 7-year-old children to a Shinto shrine to pray for their health and growth.
These leaves are most likely a wish written on a ginkgo leaf
It only took a short ride on the coach before we were dropped off at Takeshita Street, ready to dive into its fun and crowded charm.
Strolled through Harajuku which is known for its quirky fashion
We walked past Japan’s first micro pig café, “mipig cafe.” The little pigs were surprisingly friendly and affectionate, but I knew it wasn’t really my thing. Some of our tour mates loved the idea so much they went back for the full experience.
After this, we had “free time“. So Jack and I decided to visit a Ralph Lauren shop… so pretty!
Accidentally saw this pretty building. It is Tokyu Plaza which just opened in 2024, sitting right on the corner and grabbed your attention instantly. Super modern and hard to miss.
And because the tour guide just pointed to these empty Sake barrels in the Meiji Shrine and we didn’t have time for a selfie, Jack had this brilliant idea to go back since our coach was parked near there.
Next on the agenda was a quick walk to Shibuya Crossing, shibuya station and the Hachiko statue. Since I’d already visited a few days ago, I didn’t take many photos this time. Just enjoyed the familiar buzz of the area as we passed through.
On our way back to our hotel, just enjoying the ride.
I am linking this to Jo’s Monday Walk
This was in 4 November 2025.
What a busy, fun-filled day! Tired now?
Always. But the next day I feel refreshed and raring to start again.
Love the shadowy effects of the trees. I wonder what happens to those poor little pigs. I’m not sure I can handle such busyness now after living in Perth!
We’re the same. I told my husband that I want to go back to Japan but not in the main cities anymore. I find it too much for me.
More great memories for me as we visited both the Meiji Shrine and Takeshita St. I loved the atmosphere in the former too and we were also lucky enough to see a wedding there! Glad you your group were all friendly, it helps a lot 😀
They said that it is really a famous place for weddings. So it was wonderful. Glad it gave you more memories to recall. Thanks Sarah.
Sorry I’m late, darlin. We were out most of the day and I’m just catching up. The Meiji Shrine looks wonderful but the mini-pig thing is very unappealing. I don’t even like cat cafes. I prefer to eat with humans. Thanks for linking, hon xx
They also have rabbit, hedgehog, owls and so much more cafes in Japan. But it is not for me. I agree with you, I want conversations with humans haha Thanks Jo.