On one of the first brilliantly sunny days in Tokyo, I took my son to the Ueno Zoo.

In the midst of cherry blossom season, Ueno Park was full of families picnicking under the gorgeous pink trees, and we did our best to get a mom & son shot under an enormous cherry blossom tree.

Sadly, despite his amazing camera, the guy who took our photo missed the tree entirely.

Same spot, seconds later, the photo I took myself. HOW IS THIS EVEN POSSIBLE?

It was such a beautiful day and so special to be in Japan during our first cherry blossom season.

Our son drew a few fans who wanted photos with him.

When we finally made it through the park to the zoo, my son clambered through the crowds and rushed right up, happy to see the animals.

But obviously the best animals were the ones you could chase.

Oh hey there!

We’d heard a few sad stories of zoos in Asia, so my hopes weren’t too high for the Ueno Zoo, but for the most part it was wonderful. We had the best day roaming around the grounds, visiting all the animals, real & painted.

Totally getting the point of a petting zoo.

Getting some mid-afternoon sustenance.

Just like some other folks we saw…

The Ueno Zoo was free for young children & only 600 yen for adults. It’s right in the middle of the gorgeous Ueno Park, where there’s so much to do, we can’t wait to go back!