Shiofune Kannon

A beautiful shrine ground to walk around - particularly glorious in April

When I lived in Tokyo, this was my family's favorite spot for getting a bit of peace and quiet amidst the hustle and bustle of city life. Shiofune Kannon is a Buddhist Temple and has beautifully landscaped grounds - and most of the time it's just you and nature when you visit. The exception to that is in April and May when the azalea bushes scattered throughout the grounds are in bloom. Their pinks, purples, and whites are gorgeous to look at, and draw in the crowds. Usually, getting into the Shiofune Kannon grounds is free, but at the time of year when the azaleas bloom, admission will set you back a few hundred yen. Worth every bit of it though, as the colors and beauty will take your breath away. The picture I took there was from a year we went a little too early in the season for them to be in full bloom, but it was already looking lovely nonetheless. If you love nature and beautiful flowers, this is an inexpensive Tokyo spot to visit.