Shinobazu pond is the best part of Ueno park (which was one of my least favorite places in Tokyo when I lived there, but kind of grew on me after I moved away). And the best time to visit the Shinobazu pond is when lotuses are blooming – if you can stand the sweltering August temperatures, of course.

It just so happened that I found myself in Tokyo in August 2018, and it wasn’t even that hot – I comfortably strolled around the pond, marveling at huge green leaves and majestic flowers. I remember when I, young and easily impressed girl from snowy Moscow, saw a lotus for the first time in my life. It was a shock – I had no idea flowers can grow that big. The sense of wonder has faded a bit over the two decades that passed since, but I’m still amazed whenever I see lotuses in full bloom. Especially in quantities that Shinobazu pond offers.

So yes, come in August, if you can 😊

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In fact, Shinobazu pond is quite large and is divided by two walkways into three parts. One of those parts is Lotus Pond, it’s covered entirely by lotuses. The other two parts are lotus-free, but I didn’t go there this time.