Morning Stroll to Arakawa River

The third week of April is the perfect time for us to visit Japan. School's already finished in our country while winter is done in Japan so it will not be too cold on our visit and we also get to escape from our country's scorching summer heat. It's the perfect weather for us. It's in this weather that we like taking long walks in the morning where the air is cool and chilly but not cold and freezing.

From our apartment close to Gotanno station it will take around thirty minutes to reach the Arakawa river. We started early, around eight o'clock after a quick breakfast. We passed through narrow roads lined with neatly kept homes until we can already see the view to Arakawa river.

Japan is a country full of flowers. Aside from the famous cherry blossoms, there are several varieties of flowers by the roadside.

Crossing the street and climbing the stairs ahead will lead us to our destination. A contrast to the busy streets and urban life of Japan.

Soon, the view opens up, and you see the broad horizon where the Arakawa River sprawls out under the blue sky streaked with morning light. From here, we have a view of the city including the Tokyo Skytree. We still have to walk some more to the left to reach the riverside.

That morning was perfect for exercise. There were a lot of people jogging and biking.

We finally reached our destination. The river is very lively. Kids in colorful uniforms playing baseball and soccer. We can hear the crack of a bat hitting a ball or the thud of soccer passes. Coaches in heavy jackets shout encouragement (Gambatte!), while parents watch from the sidelines.

To the right, photographers stand patiently with binoculars and cameras. The Arakawa is a haven for birds. The photographers seem like hunters but instead of deadly weapons, they use their cameras instead to capture the perfect shot.

These are photographers waiting for the perfect shot, maybe of birds or the trains passing by.

Never mind the cool winds, this looks like a fun waterskiing activity.

Kids playing baseball and soccer, both popular sports in Japan.

I had some fun taking some close up shots of flowers. I see these yellow flowers everywhere.

I also took photos of these trees.

And the photographers intent on their hobby.

We stayed around the area enjoying the sights and cool morning air. Sometime later, baseball practice was over and we decided to head home too.

Going back, we saw some places that are perfect for picnic like underneath this tree.

Or this grove.

Going back to the busy streets and urban life.

It was a fun brief, adventure. What makes this walk so special is how you can see the difference between everyday life and the natural world. In just half an hour, you go from residential streets to the open beauty of the river. It was fun breathing in the cold, fresh air and hearing the birds overhead. It’s a reminder that even in one of the busiest countries in the world, there are places where you can unwind and "touch grass".