Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue was beautiful even taped
I made it to Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue after years of anticipation. Its golden leaves are famous. My timing wasn’t ideal—late in the season and after too many hours at work—but clear blue skies promised a good day. I arrived early, hoping to avoid the crowds. Instead, a new and unexpected obstacle nearly ruined my shoot. Here’s what greeted me at an iconic Tokyo photo spot and why I left frustrated.
This year, I got there quite early, about 8:30 AM. I hoped to arrive earlier but couldn’t get out of bed after so much work recently. Still, I was there before the avenue was overflowing with people.
Well, I was happy until I got to see the ginkgo trees. They were a little past their best because it was late in the season. That was okay. I couldn’t get there the previous week due to work. Quality-wise, they got a solid score. So, what was the problem?
The Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue problem
Some person had decided to cover the area with tape. It looked ridiculous. But I can understand why they did it, or I think I can.
Have you ever been to the avenue in autumn? No? Well, people walk all over the roped-off areas to grab their photos. It can cause havoc. The tape was probably placed to stop them from doing that.
Well, it was horrible. Photography was limited. I couldn’t shoot across the street for fear of capturing the tape in the frame. At least it was black and yellow, so it color-coordinated with the ginkgo trees. That was something, I guess. But, for Tokyo tourism, it was the worst idea.
Whoever put down the tape should have come up with a better solution. That was a pity. Maybe next year will be different.
Sorry to have ranted, but I needed to vent. Hopefully, there’ll be no need for me to do it again. Anyway, if you have any questions or comments, leave them below.
For more autumn articles, look at:
External related websites:
- Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue (Visit Minato City official visitor guide)