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Home » Travel Tips

Travel Tips

Historic Bell Tower in Balboa Park San Diego California USA

March 19, 2018 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

  Historic Bell Tower in Balboa Park

Climb to the top of San Diego’s Historic Bell Tower in Balboa Park for a breathtaking view. The view of San Diego is utterly magnificent. It is as if you can see forever. The beautiful san Diego Bay with it’s deep blue water and white capped waves blend with the deep blue sky and fluffy white clouds. The city seems to go on forever with it’s many tall and spectacular skyscrapers. The green cars of the San Diego Zoo dance across the landscape. This is one of the most amazing views of San Diego! This spectacular and historic bell tower has been at the entrance of Balboa Park since it’s inception in 1915. It’s clear and beautiful bells ring out each quarter of an hour throughout the day and night. Since 1915, they have never ceased to keep the time in the park. The bell tower sits next to the California Building, where you will find much information on the anthropology of California. It climbs another 200 feet beyond the California Building into the beautiful San Diego sky. The historic bell tower is magnificent. Only recently has the bell tower been open to the public. It was closed to the public in 1935.

You may buy tickets either in person or online for the tour of the bell tower. There is a safety briefing 15 minutes before your scheduled tour time. If you are late for your briefing, you will not be allowed to go on your tour. Tickets are not refundable.

The tower is reached from the second floor of the museum. After entering the hidden staircase, you will climb seven floors. As you climb you will see little glimpses of heaven through the many narrow windows of the bell tower. On the seventh level, you will climb a metal winding staircase and emerge out into the California sunlight. What a magnificent view!

If you are looking for a local San Diego adventure, why not come on over to Balboa Park. Southern California is a play ground of Amusement Parks. But even in this priceless playground, it is wonderful to slow down and enjoy the beauty of San Diego’s famous Balboa Park. There is not only the Bell Tower, but the architecture of all the buildings are historic and amazing. The San Diego Zoo and Safari Park are also in it’s own area of the park. There are several small museums and the famous Museum of Man, Balboa Park is fun for the whole family. Be sure to climb to the top of the Bell Tower, you can see forever! It is unique! The view……it is priceless!

 

 

ExploreTraveler has been creating travel articles, books, videos, and podcasts for several years now. It is our intention to bring our older material for others here to enjoy, and to create new material here as well. We invite you to click on our links to the original content, and to also follow us there as well.

This post was originally published on Jan. 20, 2016 at:

https://exploretraveler.com/historic-bell-tower-in-balboa-park/

 

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Filed Under: California, North America, San Diego, travel channel, Travel Hacks, travel the world, Travel Tips, USA, World Travel Tagged With: blog, life, photography, steemthatshare, travel

It’s A Theme Park Wonderland In Southern California USA

March 17, 2018 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin Ride At Toontown

Roger Rabbit’s Car Toon Spin Ride At Mickey’s Toontown At Disneyland What child doesn’t enjoy all the adventures of Toontown. Mickey is everywhere and he is on hand to welcome you to Mickey’s Toontown at Disneyland, In Southern California USA. Toontown is a theme park with the craziest architecture with unique and fascinating sculptures. Many of your old favorites call toontown home, like Minnie and of course Mickey himself is ready to welcome you to his home. There is lots to do, as you climb the crazy structures and ride the unique rides. If you are ready for a crazy adventure, join us in Toontown at Disney California USA.

 

“It’s The Season Of The Force”

Star Wars In Tomorrowland At Disneyland

Tomorrowland is a glimpse of the future today. Get ready to greet Star Wars, as you are greated by “the Force.”

A Christmas Fantasy Parade

At Disneyland there is always a reason for a parade, no matter the season. Here we see Mickey leading the way in Disneyland California USA.

 Which one do I choose? 

At Hollywood Pictures Backlot in Disneyland California USA

  Grizzly Peak Rafting Adventure At Disney

If you yearn for a white water adventure, then  Disney’s California Grizzly Mountain is waiting to add some old fashioned water rafting experiences to your day.

 LEGOLAND Water Park Fun In Carlsbad, Southern California USA 

Calling all Lego fans……It is time for a Legoland Adventure. The above picture shows the water park that is a favorite of the under 12 age group. With some sections really shallow for the tots, and others deeper for the older children, it is a perfect spot for the family to have a fun day in the water.

 LEGO Legends Of CHIMA Water Park In Carlsbad, California USA

While one side was themed with all the regular Legoland themes, this side is spiced up with slides, lions, crocodiles,  and many other talking beasts. You’ll find all your Chima friends here at the Chima Water Park.

  The Journey to Atlantis 

The journey to Atlantis has arrived at Sea World San Diego Southern California USA. Climb aboard this unique and fun water coaster and let the fun begin at Sea World in San Diego.

Welcome To Sea World In San Diego California USA

 Anaheim California Is Magical

Anaheim is one of those places where everywhere you look there is excitement in the air. Anaheim is home to Disney California Adventure Park, Knots Berry Farm, Jungle Cruise,Disneyland,Adventure City, Six Flags, and many other smaller but unique parks. Southern California often seems like an endless supply of theme parks. Some of the worlds best are between Anaheim and San Diego. Anaheim, Santa Clarita, and Los Angeles all have major Six Flags Amusement Parks. Universal Studios Hollywood is a film studio and theme park in Los Angeles county. San Diego has Sea World with it’s fantastic Marine Animal Park, Amusement Park, and Water Park. San Diego is one of those magical cities where there is adventure at every turn. There is lots of fun in the sun in San Diego.

No matter where you go in Southern California, excitement and adventure are waiting. So come on out and get some of the beautiful California Sunshine, while you explore the many exciting adventures waiting for you in Suthern California USA.

 

 

 

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Filed Under: California, North America, travel channel, Travel Hacks, travel the world, Travel Tips, USA, World Travel Tagged With: blog, life, photography, steemthatshare, travel

Indulging In The Delicacies Of Taiwan And The Philippines

March 15, 2018 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Truffle Xiao Long Bao Soup Dumplings 

Truffle Xiao Long Bao Soup Dumplings are an mixture of minced pork and truffles at Din Tai Fung Restaurant  in Taiwan. Din Tai Fung opened in 1958 as a retail shop for cooking oil. It became a restaurant in 1972. It specializes in soup dumplings and noodles.  They have sense become an international restaurant with locations all over the world.

Fresh Oysters Are Plentiful At Liuhe Night Market, Kaohsiung Taiwan  

Taiwan has some of the most exciting street foods in all of Asia and definitely some of the best night markets, Oysters on a half shell are one of the favorite “little eats” in Taiwan.

Philippine Blue Swimming Crabs Are Local Crustaceans, Colorful And So Sweet!  

Crab delicacies are a rage in The Philippines, with this Blue local crab being a favorite.

Asparagus And Shrimp Soup 

Asparagus and Shrimp soup is “Fast, fresh and nutritious. “This is a  popular style soup in Taiwan. It seems like there are enough soups to eat out every night for a year and still not eat the same soup twice.

Fresh Hsinchu Rice Noodles 

Fresh Hsinchu Rice Noodles is a delicious staple in Taiwanese cuisine. Locals go to the morning market each morning and there is always fresh noodles. There is little packaged food in Taiwan, as everything is made fresh.

Chocolate Fondue Heaven  

Chocolate Fondue Heaven with fresh fruit at the Marriott Manila  in the Philippines is outstanding. You really don’t want to miss the awesome fondue when in the Philippines.

Bee Cheng Hiang Bakkwa  

Bee Cheng Hiang Bakkwa are sheets of spiced minced pork barbecued jerky. For those that like package jerky, you will not want to miss out on this fresh jerky.

Taiwanese Aboriginal Chicken Soup

 Can you name the ingredients?  This is a fresh soup with everything but the kitchen sink.

Baby Green Mangoes 小綠芒果 

These baby mangoes are soaked in a sugar syurp. This  is a popular sweet spring time snack in Taiwan.

Fresh Salted Fish Near The Mountains Of Taiwan

Salted Fish At Mabanai Indigenous Restaurant In Taitung, Taiwan.

These are just a few more of the delicious foods of Taiwan and The Philippines.  Are you ready for a food adventure?  If you are, then pack your bag and head on out to one of these two nations where food adventures are always in season.

 

 

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Filed Under: Asia, Food Travel, Restaurant, Taiwan, travel channel, Travel Hacks, travel the world, Travel Tips, World Travel Tagged With: life, photography, steemthatshare, travel

The Amazing Treasures Of Taipei Taiwan

March 14, 2018 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

 Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall In Taipei Taiwan 

Here you can enjoy the arts of China, linger in the elegant rooms, and take in the beautiful Chinese architecture.  All this is surrounded by the magnificent gardens and green space.

 The National Theater At The  Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall Is Located In 

The Heart Of Taipei City Taiwan 

 The Gate Of Great Piety In Taipei Taiwan 

The Path of Reverence connects with all the many gates.  The Gate of Great Piety is on the South side on  Ai Kuo   East Road.

 

 “Changing Of The Guard” Chiang Kai-shek Memorial Hall In Taipei Taiwan 

The Changing of the Guard is done on the hour from 10 AM till 4 PM daily. On Wednesdays it changes till 6 PM.  This is a beautiful experience and is rich in culture, showing a preciseness that reflects it’s Chinese Origins.

 Taipei 101 In Taiwan 

 Taipei 101 in Taiwan, has the Worlds fastest passenger elevator. It takes  just 37 seconds to arrive at the 89th floor. Wow!

 TWG Tea, The World’s Finest Luxury Tea Brand Inside Taipei 101 Taiwan 

The TWG store is one of many first class shops located in the Taipei 101. TWG is a world reknown brand which has only the highest quality teas.

 Front Lobby Of The Grand Hotel Taipei Taiwan 

The magnificent Grand Hotel Taipei Taiwan is a spectacular and stunning 5 star hotel. The Grand Hotel is located in the Zhongshan District of the city.  It’s stunning Classical Chinese architecture has all the amenities of any 5 star hotel. It is a major landmark in Taipei, Taiwan. The lobby is beautiful with it’s classical Chinese theme. The magnificent red lobby symbolizes prosperity, good luck, plenty, and happiness. Red symbolizes good luck throughout Asia.

 Golden Dragon! Grand Hotel Taipei Taiwan

The Golden Dragon Restaurant is a first class restaurant located inside The Grand Hotel Taipei Taiwan. The restaurant is a favorite of tourists and government dignitaries from all over the world.  The food is excellent and the service is outstanding. The restaurant is well known for it’s Cantonese specialties.

Hsing Tian Kong Temple In Taipei Taiwan  

This temple is devoted to guan yu, the god of businessmen. It is located on a street corner in the central part of the city.

These are only a few of the amazing places you can see on a Taipei adventure. Taipei stands among all the quality cities of the world, with it’s 5 star hotels and quality restaurants, amazing monuments, and living history. So while in Taipei, take time to discover all the amazing places of culture.  This is the perfect start to any Taiwan adventure.

 

 

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Filed Under: Asia, Philippines, Taiwan, travel channel, Travel Hacks, travel the world, Travel Tips, World Travel Tagged With: blog, life, phottography, steemthanshare, travel

Splendors And Discoveries Near Agas Agas Leyte Philippines

March 12, 2018 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Lost In The Jungles of Agas Agas Leyte 

The jungle of Agas Agas Leyte are fun and inviting. Why not grab your backpack and your camera and lets go jungle trekking. The jungle has so many different animals and birds calling out to each other. It can really be, a very noisy paradise.  Just think of all the different parrots out there calling out to each other.

 The Philippine Sailfin Crested Lizard Living Only In The Philippine Jungle  

This little fellow is only found in the Philippine Jungle. His markings and colors are extraordinary!

 Lake Kasudsuran In The Mountains Of Ormoc Philippines 

Lake Kasudsuran is one of many lakes hidden away in the jungle landscape.  This is one of the many jewels found on the island of Leyte. The lake is calm and beautiful. Many come here to spend a quiet day painting or sketching, while others come to play on her shores. Mount Pananguan is near by, providing awesome hiking for those who desire. Boats are rented and it is a favorite place to venture out onto the calm water of the lake.

 Brothers Work And Play With Their Carabao Water Buffalo In The Philippines  

As you approach different villages, you will see these magnificent water buffalo at work or play.  Life never stands still in the jungle.

 Canigao Is An Uninhabited Island Surrounded By The Camotes Sea In Leyte Philippines 

Canigao Island  is best known for it’s abundant fishing grounds. The beautiful coral reefs are a perfect diving spot. This area draws divers from around the world. During different times of the year, this is the destination for fun beach getaways and overnight stays on the beach. The crystal blue waters are always inviting!

 White Sand Beaches Of Canigao Island

 Abundant Under The Sea Coral Gardens At Panaon Island in Leyte Philippines 

Another one of the perfect islands of the Leyte. If you have come to dive, you will fall in love with Panaon Island.

The many islands that make up Leyte are inviting and full of magical adventures just waiting for you to discover. Tropical weather is always a welcome change from winter back home and is the perfect time to grab your backpack , camera, and your passport. Are you ready for a Philippine adventure?

 

 

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“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel

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Filed Under: Asia, enviroment, Philippines, travel channel, Travel Hacks, travel the world, Travel Tips, World Travel Tagged With: blog, life, photography, steemthatshare, travel

Discovering The Mystery And Beauty Of Taiwan

March 9, 2018 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

 Entering Into The Mystery And Beauty Of Taiwan

Are you ready to discover an island filled with surprises, natural mysteries, and unique experiences? If you are, then come along as we discover, the many sounds and colors of Taiwan.

 The scenic and tranquil area of Lotus Lake in Kaohsiung Taiwan   

Lotus Lake, a man made lake, is on the east side of Zuoying District in the city of Kaohsiung. The lake is a favorite with visitors who enjoy all the many unique temples, and pagodas. If that was not enough,  the lake is full of Lotus blooms.  The aroma of lotus blooms is everywhere.

 Chi Ming Palace 郗醚嗯宮 

Chi Ming Palace 郗醚嗯宮 is bursting with spectacular colors on Lotus Lake in Kaohsiung, Taiwan.  The use of color is spectacular and unique, setting the pace for the many mysterious ways that color is used around the lake.

 Dragon over Wuli Pavilion at Lotus Pond  

The Wuli Pavilion is a symbol of good luck and prosperity. This ornate pavilion is just one of many unique pavilions and temples on the lake.

 Up Close View Of The Fine Details Of The Wuli Pavilion

The fine details, the amazing use of color, and the peacefulness of the lake, make this the perfect place for those who just need to relax and enjoy the world around them.

 Taiwan’s Formosan Rock Macaque is the only monkey native to Taiwan

No island adventure is complete without an encounter with this pesky monkey. Keep a watchful eye on your camera and your lunch!

Store Shelves Filled With Taiwanese Comfort Foods And Bricks Of Sweet Tea

Ancient Wax Gourd,  Winter Melon tea bricks, and local rice and beans are perfect comfort foods in Taiwan.   If you enjoy tea, be sure to try the Winter Melon Tea. These tea bricks also make awesome gifts for those who love a quality tea back home.

 Stir Fried Eggplant 

The perfect end to any adventure on Lotus Lake is a quality dinner at one of the many local restaurants. The above photo shows the quality of Taiwan’s local specialties.

If you are ready for a spectacular adventure, then it is time to book your next Taiwan exploration. Lotus Lake is a perfect place for those who love the mysteries and beauty of Taiwan.

 

 

 

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“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel

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Filed Under: Asia, education, Food Travel, Taiwan, travel channel, Travel Hacks, travel the world, Travel Tips, World Travel Tagged With: blog, life, photography, steemthatsahre, travel

Elegant Church Architecture Throughout The World

March 8, 2018 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

 De Nieuwe Kerk A 15th-Century Catholic Church In Amsterdam Netherlands 

This very ornate Gothic Church was consecrated in 1409. It was located on Dam Square, next to the magnificent Royal Palace. It was of the highest Catholic Order and  devoted to Our Lady.

 St.Peter’s Church With Unique Brabantine Medieval Architecture In Leuven Belgium 

Saint Peter’s is located in Leuven, Belgium in the cit’s main market square, grote Markt. It is directly accross from the Town Hall in the square. It was built in a Brabantine Gothic Architecture. Saint Peter’s has a low bell tower that was never finished.

Chapel Of The Angels At The Shepherds Field Near Bethlehem Israel

Chapel of the Angels is built on the traditional place where an angel announced the birth of the Savior to some shepherds who were keeping their sheep in the open fields near Bethlehem.  One might notice the simple dome shape of the roof of the church. This is seen throughout the Middle East in buildings of faith in general.

The Church Of The Annunciation in Nazareth Israel

The Church Of The Annunciation in Nazareth is at the traditional site of the place where the Annunciation by an Angel to Mary is believed to have happened. The Church Of The Annunciation also has the dome shape, though it is a slightly more elaborate styling.

The Cathedral Of  Sé de Lisboa In Lisbon Portugal

Sé de Lisboa was commissioned in 1147 by Afonso I, the fist King of Portugal. Sé de Lisboa is the oldest church in Lisbon and is dedicated to Santa Maria. It is the most important church in the city of Lisbon.

Church Of San Isidro In The Zuni Mountains Of New Mexico

This simple adobe mission from the 19th century is a good representation of Spanish architecture of the time in New Mexico. Located in the Zuni Mountains of West-Central New Mexico, the Church of San Isidro is beautiful with it’s simple style of the day.

 Mong Kok Christian Center In Hong Kong

Mong Kok Christian Center is busy preaching the good news in Hong Kong. Another example of simple beauty, this time in the Asian world.

All over the world the good news is shared in churches, homes, or wherever people may gather. The message is the same, only the languages and culture may differ. These are just a few of the churches we saw among the many buildings throughout our travels.  These show how the culture of an area influences the architecture, as well as the time in history the building was built. As you travel through different countries, you will see many buildings of different faiths. It is always interesting to see and admire the architecture of an area.

 

 

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The Imperial Palace Of Tokyo Japan Asia Photo Tour

March 6, 2018 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment


imperial palace tokyo japan

                             The Imperial Palace Secluded Among The Japanese Black Pines 

Imperial Palace of Tokyo Japan

Imperial Palace of Tokyo Japan is stunning and majestic as you begin to get your first glances of this spectacular structure. This is the private residence of The Emperor and Empress of Japan, and private it is, as it discreetly peaks out from among the trees. The palace, in all its splendor, sits on the ancient grounds of the Edo Castle. These park-like grounds are a vast green space, with many native trees and bushes. Sprinkled among the native trees, are many spectacular cherry trees. In the spring, these fluffy pink blooms almost remind you of pink cotton candy. You can only imagine the beauty of all these cherry trees in full bloom. It is like a fairy-tale surrounding a picturesque palace. This inner garden a perfect example of outrageous beauty!

Imperial Palace of Tokyo Japan Surroundings

The famous Edo Castle, with all its splendor, was the location of the Tokugawa Shogun Government. The Tokugawa Shogun Government ruled the area until 1603 when at that time, it was overthrown. It was then that Tokyo became the capital. A new palace was constructed on the grounds of the Edo Castle and was finished in 1888. Unfortunately, this beautiful palace was destroyed during World War II. The original palace was rebuilt to be an exact replica of the one that was destroyed.

imperial palace tokyo japan

A Beautiful Moat Surrounds The Palace’s Inner Garden

Imperial Palace Tokyo Japan

Palace of Asia

Security, of course, is always at a maximum level around any palace and this is no exception. However, not every modern palace still finds itself encircled by an amazing and awesome moat. The water in the moat is kept so clean, that you can see the reflection of the trees from both sides of this spectacular security feature. Talk about amazing security!

imperial palace tokyo japan

    Meganebashi Or Eye Glass Bridge

The security is even tighter within The Imperial Palace of Tokyo Japan inner circle, as the only way to enter the inner garden is by a beautiful stone bridge, working together, with a two-level wooden bridge (that was rebuilt along the way in steel) that is located behind the Meganebashi Bridge. This combination of bridges provides a safe and unique way to enter the inner palace grounds through one of the nine gates. There are several individual brides crossing the mote, but all are controlled by the Meganebashi and the Nijubashi bridges.  The double bridge is hard to see, and can best be viewed from the Kikyo Gaien or patio at the front of the Royal Palace. Only from the Kikyo Gaien, can visitors have a clear view of the Nijubashi or double bridge.

Each of the nine gates that enter the palace grounds has a special significance. Gate number one is the entrance to the Kokyo Gaien National Gardens, which is open to the public. Gate number two is especially interesting from a historical approach. It is the south gate leading to Edo Castle and finished in 1636. It was near this gate that the assistant samurai of the Shogun Government was assassinated. This was also the beginning of the final collapse of the Shogun government. It is considered an important cultural property for the Japanese. Gate number three is the main  Kokyo which is crossed over the stone bridge. It can only be used on the Emperor’s birthday and for the New Year speech of the Emperor on January Second.

Gate number four is the main gate used by the tour guides to access the area of the newer palace. This is the central administration building of Kokyo which was completed in 1968, It is quite large with 7 wings, the Emperor’s office, several ceremonial halls, banquet facilities, and other offices. During the tours, you can not enter the Palace, but you will enjoy a good look at the outside and the Palace grounds.

Gate number five is the main entrance to the main complex of the old Edo Castle, which was destroyed by fire in 1657. It is the official entrance to the East Garden and opens to the public. This area has several spectacular Japanese gardens, the ruins of the old Edo Castle, a museum, and many other buildings and areas of significance. This area is open to the public daily.  The other gates are seldom used, except for special occasions.

In the above picture, you can also see the thick stone walls that yet provide another level of security for the palace. In addition to the massive stone walls, are several armed guards. The personal safety and security of the Emperor and the rest of the Royal Family is taken seriously in Japan.

 

imperial palace of tokyo japan

Imperial Palace Tokyo Japan Kokyo Gaien National Gardens

The Kokyo Gaien National Gardens is most often called the Outer Garden. This is as close to the palace as most of the public can get, and provides yet another level of security. Notice how close to the downtown business center that the gardens are located. You can look one way beyond the trees and see the city and turn and see Japan in history. This enormous outer garden not only provides security, but rather a peaceful place to recharge your human batteries from the business of city life. With their lunch hours or after work, they can take a quiet stroll through the garden which brings them peace from the city rat race. What a gift nature gives!

 

imperial palace of tokyo japanThe Japanese Pine Forming The Over-Story

In the midst of the Imperial Palace Of Tokyo Japan, you find the Kokyo Gaien National Gardens, a beautiful green-space with spectacular living art. The air is crisp, and the scent of pine scents the air. The Japanese Black Pine forms the over-story to this urban forest. This species of pine has a natural resistance to pollution and salt, so it grows tall and strong throughout the Outer Garden. Its resistance to pollution make it the perfect urban tree, and it also has a resistance to salt, making it an excellent choice for a small island nation. These majestic trees just keep growing taller and stronger and eventually cover the native trees that form the under-story.

imperial palace of tokyo japan

Living Art In An Urban Garden

These tall and sturdy Pines not only are capable of building a beautiful over-story in the forest or garden, but with patience, skill, and effort they can be made into beautiful living Bonsai trees. This artwork is a gift of nature and fills the outer-gardens with unique and intriguing works of living art. These are the living treasures you will see throughout the Kokyo Gaien National Gardens. From when the trees were young, skilled masters in the art of Bonsai creation, have lovingly pruned and shaped these trees into the finished product you see today. This display of creativity is among the best living art in the world. In the midst of such creativity, you are able to rejuvenate from your over-worked lifestyle to breathe in deeply the gift of fresh pine-scented air and restore peace and tranquility to your life.

If you have never spent any time at the Wadakura Fountain Park, in Kokyo Gaien National Gardens, this is a spectacular modern fountain, deep in the midst of an amazing garden. How can you not find peace and relaxation at the Wadakura Fountain Park?

What a gift Kokyo Gaien National Gardens is to the Japanese people. It was the original garden of the Royal Family, but after the Second World War, it was opened to the public.

imperial palace of tokyo japan

A Modern City Blends With The Grounds Of An Ancient Castle

One of the things that Japan does well, blends the old and the new. They seem to understand that a whole person, considers the present and the past, thus they do not destroy it or hide it away out of sight. All of this beauty is located in the downtown area of Tokyo, Japan. You can stand in front of tall modern buildings and see the grounds surrounding an ancient past. Or stand in Kokyo National Park, and see a modern financial center in downtown Tokyo.

The Imperial Palace and the Kokyo Gaien National Gardens is only a short walk from the Tokyo Train Station, making it easy for visitors to access the grounds. There are clear signs everywhere, so getting lost should not be an option. Kokyo-Gaien National Gardens is only about 10-20 minutes walk from the Tokyo Train Station. It is about a ten-minute walk to the East Garden Entrance from the Tokyo Train station.

There are tours of the grounds most days except Friday and Monday. The tours are walking tours and you slowly enjoy the different sections of the Palace Grounds. There are also other tours that include the Imperial Palace within the whole city tours and river tours. Depending on your interest, there is a tour available.

There are several 4-star Hotels near Kokyo averaging between $100.00 to $200.00 dollars per night. If you are looking for 4.5 stars, they begin at around $300.00 dollars. It is easy to book your favorite hotel and many further away, provide transportation to the palace grounds.

Imperial Palace Tokyo Japan

Location Counts

Here is a list of hotels and restaurants for you to consider within this area. Using online maps you can narrow your area of focus. These locations can be used as map keywords that will help you plan a great time within the downtown Palace area.

Imperial Hotel

Palace Hotel Tokyo

Imperial Tokyo
Imperial Hotel Plaza

帝国ホテル ベビールーム

Les Saisons

Courtesy of Google maps

For additional information here is a video that will help you prepare and understand better what you will be seeing.

 

Imperial Palace Tokyo Japan

External links of interest

Imperial Household Agency | Imperial Palace in Tokyo

Image gallery of the Imperial Palace

Imperial Palace Map

Information on visiting the Imperial Palace on the Emperor’s birthday

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If you would like to increase your research into The Imperial Palace Of Tokyo Japan here are a few keywords to consider.

 

Imperial Palace Of Tokyo Japan

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tokyo garden

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emperors palace

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Imperial Palace Tokyo Japan Our Continued Japan Series

Filed Under: Asia, Japan, Tokyo, Travel Tips, World Travel Tagged With: East Gardens of the Imperial Palace, Edo Castle, Emperor of Japan, Imperial Palace, imperial palace tokyo japan, Japanese Black Pines, Kokyo Gaien National Gardens, The Imperial Palace Moat

The Unique And The Unusual Tastes of Asia

March 4, 2018 by Exploretraveler.com Leave a Comment

Bamboo Charcoal Noodles A Unique Taste In Taiwan

These black noodles are black due to the charcoal of the bamboo. Known to have over 400 different minerals, they are believed to have hundreds of health benefits. Bamboo Charcoal that is activated is thought to draw impurities from the skin and help with severe acne.

 Dried Cuttlefish Snacks At The Coastal Markets In Keelung Taiwan 

The Cuttlefish is dried and shredded for snacks. Squid is also is often substituted in making dried fish snacks.

 Blue Mackerel Sautéed In Spicy Vinegar, A Good Taste Of Taiwan

While it may seem unusual to use a spicy vinegar to saute Blue Mackerel, but it is really is a delicious way of cooking fish. There are several ways of cooking this specialty, but all use vinegar, garlic , and usually lime.

The Rich Food Culture Of The Hakka Aborigines In Northern Taiwan 

The tastes of the Hakka are unique and very different but delicious. The Aborigines have centuries of experience in this unique but tasty style of cooking.

 

 Hot, Healthy And Spicy BBQ  Ell Is A Favorite In Taiwan and Japan

While Ell seems too strange to some, to others it is better than a good cut of beef.

Tea And Buddha’s Hand Citron Is  A Perfect Way To Start The Day

Buddha’s Hand is like a the perfect citron. It’s sweet lemon blossom aroma fills the air. This is a breakfast to remember!

 “Taiwan’s Black Fungus Mushroom” ~ Perfect With Your Morning Eggs!

Thought to have  many health benefits from preventing cancer to losing weight, this is added to everything. Who can help but love a mushroom with all these health benefits.

Sometimes The Important Thing Is Just To Get The Perfect Grasshopper

Grasshoppers on a stick are a delight in Taiwan and throughout the Asian world of food! Are you ready for a snack.

Throughout the world eating habits change. Some delicacies are just different, but they are not bad. So as you travel through the world, take a chance and taste and see what each region has to offer. Today is the day to reach out and embrace the unknown, to try something you have never tried. This is the day for an Asian food adventure.

 

 

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“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel

 and discover that the world is full of wonderful people.” – ExploreTraveler

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  © 2018 ExploreTraveler. All Rights Reserved    

Filed Under: Food Travel, travel channel, Travel Hacks, travel the world, Travel Tips, World Travel Tagged With: blog, life, photography, steemthatshare, travel

Explore Traveler Photo Tour: Exploring The Uniqueness Of Japan

February 28, 2018 by Exploretraveler.com 1 Comment

 Natto Fermented Soybeans And Umeboshi Pickled Fruits Are Tasty Health Foods In Japan 

Natto is an extremely good protein food, as it has gone through a ridged fermentation process. Nato appears to be very good at preventing bone loss in post menopausal women. It is high in vitamin K2. It is also desired for it’s health benefits to the skin.

Ume is a fruit that is often thought to be a plum, but it is closer to apricots really. Umeboshi are like pickles that are sweet and salty. There is also one recipe that is sweet due to its use of honey. They are extremely good!

 The Many Wild And Unusual Flavors Of  The Kit Kat Bar In Japan 

There are more than 200 different kinds of Kit Kat Bars in Japan. If you can think of a flavor, then it is probably there. Some that come to mind are Baked Potato, Matcha-Green Tea, Blueberry Cheese Cake and Strawberry Cheese cake. What is your favorite Kit Kat?

Arriving At The Maihama Station At Disney Land From Tokyo Metro.

 The Magic Kingdom Monorail At The Disney Resort In Japan 

 The Magic Of Disney In Tokyo Japan 

 Peaceful Beauty Of Chivoda In Central Tokyo Japan 

Chivoda, also called Chivoda City,  is a ward in the central part of the city of Tokyo that is made up of the Imperial Palace and surrounding area. It is a very peaceful area with green spaces and a small pond.

 The Unique Experience Of The Tsukiji Fish Market in Tokyo Japan 

The Tsukiji Fish Market is the largest wholesale fish and seafood market worldwide. It is also the largest wholesale food market worldwide. There is also a retail section adjacent to the wholesale market. If you want to observe the wholesale market, there are limited time slots and only a few people can enter each morning. Check the market website for details.

 “One Fishcake Please” At The Tsukiji Fish Market Retail Section In Tokyo Japan 

Shopping At The Tsukiji Retail Market (築地市場) In Tokyo Japan 

 Barrels Of Sake Made From Fermented Rice And Wrapped In Straw At The Meiji Jingu Shrine

Small Japanese shrines are supplied by local sake companies, but Meiji Jingu Shrine is a major shrine and thus receives donations form every sake company in the country. What a beautiful display of Sake outside containers!

Japanese  Shrine Maiden at Meiji Jingu Shrine  

 Japanese Black Pines At Kokyo Gaien National Gardens In The Heart Of Tokyo 

This magnificent garden must be passed through to reach the Imperial Palace. It is amazing to walk the many paths, viewing all the many spectacular Black Pine Trees in the park. There are more than 2,000 of these pines in this National Garden.

 The Tokyo Imperial Palace Is The Main Residence Of The Emperor And Empress Of Japan  

Tours of the Palace Gardens are offered Tuesday through Saturday. The Inner gardens are not open to the public except 2 days a year. The interior is not open to the public.

 A Fairy-tale Barbie Bridal In Japan 

One of the most popular theme weddings in Japan is Barbie. Every girl dreams  to have a Barbie themed wedding. Bridal shops all over the city have dresses and decorations for a beautiful Barbie styled wedding.

As our adventure in Japan comes to a close, we reflect on what we have seen. The extreme sense of peace as you walk through all the shrines and gardens lingers with you. Japan is a country that is both ancient and modern. No matter where you go, the two touch seamlessly.

 

 

  ExploreTraveler.com

Twitter Page, ExploreTraveler

Facebook Page, ExploreTraveler

“Helping bring the world together one friend at a time. So travel 

and discover that the world is full of wonderful people.” – ExploreTraveler

 @exploretraveler

We have a travel tip audio book that you can purchase at Audible –> Here

Happy Travels, 

ExploreTraveler.com 

 © 2018 ExploreTraveler. All Rights Reserved    

Filed Under: travel channel, Travel Hacks, travel the world, Travel Tips, World Travel Tagged With: blog, life, photography, stemthatshare, travel

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