Shinobazu Pond, Tokyo

Shinobazu Pond, the watery jewel of Ueno Park, is a perfect harmony between nature, history, and the occasional swan-shaped pedal boat. Originally a lagoon connected to Tokyo Bay, this pond has been around for a casual 1,800 years. By the 15th century, the locals decided it deserved a proper name, and thus, Shinobazu Pond officially came into business.

Clocking in at two kilometers around and a whopping 1.1 million square meters, it’s no small puddle. But here’s the curious part—Shinobazu is actually divided into three sections, each with its own personality. First up, the Lotus Pond, where summer transforms the water into a lush, floral paradise—Mother Nature’s way of flexing. Then there’s the Boat Pond, the go-to spot for anyone wanting to row, pedal, or dramatically contemplate life while floating on the water. And finally, you have the Cormorant Pond, where Japanese cormorants do their thing—aka living their best bird lives—thanks to its connection to the Ueno Zoo.

Right in the middle of it all is a man-made island that’s home to a shrine dedicated to Benzaiten, the goddess of learning, music, and arts—basically, a divine patron of creative geniuses and last-minute exam crammers alike.

But wait, there’s more! Shinobazu Pond isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s an ecosystem brimming with life. You’ve got tufted ducks, pochards, black-headed gulls, and even the fancy-sounding northern pintails. Fish swim beneath the surface, and in a plot twist worthy of a nature documentary, alligator snapping turtles have recently been spotted breeding here. Who invited them? No one knows, but they’re here, making things interesting.

And because Tokyo does things right, there’s even a waterside music hall, where concerts and events add a cultural touch to this already spectacular spot. It doesn't really matter if you’re here for the lotus blooms, the wildlife, or just an excuse to paddle around in a boat shaped like a giant swan—Shinobazu Pond is fit to impress you all the same...