The WalkVentures of an Overseas Filipino Wanderer : 👣 StEpisode 7 - Omiya Park

Omiya Park — this is where I’m taking you for my WalkVentures Stepisode 7.
Ōmiya Park is located in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, and is within walking distance from Ōmiya JR Station. I heard from my friends that the park is especially beautiful in spring, with around 1,000 Cherry Blossom trees, and even more stunning in autumn, when nearly 2,500 Maple and Ginkgo trees transform the landscape with vibrant colors. I’m looking forward to visiting again during those seasons, but for this stepisode, I’ll indulge you with the sight of unlimited lush greenery, as it’s still summer here in Japan.

<sub>Entrance to Omiya Park

Omiya Park Map but not in English. Good thing my friends can read Kanji. 😅

When we arrived at Omiya Park the rain has just ended so it was not that hot and breeze was kinda cool.

I'm not sure if you can ride those small boats.

Unlimited lush greens. Good for the eyes. 🍀

There are benches along the pond, making it a nice spot to make muni2x. Just my favorite pastime.😅

The walking path is also marked with its length, maybe for runners or joggers.

Such peaceful, serene, and tranquil vibes, so relaxing.

Saving this spot for my next muni2x sesh 😅

These Japanese lanterns are so aesthetically pleasing. I’d love to have them at home.

Just by looking at this picture, you can almost feel the cold air, the cool breeze caressing my face. charot!

Umbrellas up, not for rain, but for the sun!😆 It's a Filipino thing 😝

People usually sit on the benches even under direct sunlight. Not me though, I’ll always look for a shady spot.

Can’t help but capture every beautiful corner I see.

This white torii gate instantly reminds me of the one in Itoshima.

Looking at this pond, I can’t help but wonder how deep it goes.

I’ve noticed that ponds here in Japan almost always have boating activities like kayaking or paddle boats 🚣‍♀️</sub>

Inside the park, there’s also a jinja (shrine) we plan to visit which is the Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Shrine. This shrine has been around for more than 2,400 years and is one of the most important in the Kanto region. Fun fact: the name ‘Omiya’ actually comes from this shrine, which means ‘great shrine.’ From its massive torii gates to the long, tree-lined path, the place gives off such a timeless and spiritual vibe. This will be our last stop in Omiya Park before heading back to the city proper for dinner.
<sub>Entrance to Musashi Ichinomiya Hikawa Shrine.

Inside the shrine. Look at that cloud, shaped like a whale!

More views from inside the shrine. Such a calming space to be in.

At Shinto shrines, that water pavilion with ladles (tubs/scoops) is called a Chōzuya (手水舎) or Temizuya (手水舎).

A familiar sight inside shrines are these wooden slips with writings, carrying prayers and wishes.

I love how this park is surrounded by so many trees. It feels so refreshing.

How to read this though?🤔

Love how even the ice cream shop is on-theme here.

The moment I spotted that autumn tree, I just had to snap a photo 🍁

It would be amazing to experience a festival here someday.</sub>

_{Already near Omiya Station, this large torii gate stands as the main entrance, marking the beginning of the sacred grounds.}

The walk in the park and the shrine took almost 3–4 hours since we took our time to rest and admire the views. I love this park although it’s quite far from Tokyo and even farther from Ikegami Station where I’m staying, it’s definitely one of the most beautiful parks I’ve been to in Japan. I hope I can go back in spring or autumn to admire the beauty of the Sakura, Maple, and Ginkgo trees. This place feels like a perfect escape from the city, where history, nature, and serenity come together. A spot I’d love to return to again and again.

That’s all for this stepisode. Catch you on my next WalkVentures! 👣

_{*All content is mine unless otherwise noted. All photos taken with my iPhone 14 Pro Max.}