By Jennifer Ciotta

The mellowness and magic of Takashi Atoda's Floating Lanterns can be found at Senzoku Pond in Ota Ward.  On the southeastern side of Tokyo lies Ota Ward, known for its small manufacturing companies and factories; however a deeper exploration of Tokyo can be found in nearby Shinagawa Ward.   At the Shinagawa Aquarium, a tourist can marvel at the 500 various fish swimming in a gigantic tank, observed from an underbelly angle, giving the illusion of gazing up at the ocean's floor.  The glass-like Shinagawa waterfront holds Tennozu Isle, a relaxing boardwalk spot for fun activities such as shopping, theater life and dining.  Tourists can enjoy a Tokyo Bay cruise, or a nighttime fireworks show.  Shinagawa Kumin Park boasts the natural beauty of cherry, plum and pine trees, along with a manmade saltwater lake.

Another interesting facet of Shinagawa is the split between the new city, with its reflecting skyscrapers and bullet trains, and the old city of yesterday.  The elder part, known as Tokaido, provides a traditional houseboat pier reminiscent of old world Japan.  The houses consist of copper plating, fighting erosion from the sea.  Outside water wells, shrines and Buddhist temples add to the ambience.  Another on-going tradition is the Tenno Matsuri Festival, held in June.  Shrines are lifted and carried by the crowds while the music of bamboo sticks, snare drums and bamboo flutes play in the streets.  The most exciting part of the festival is when the shrines are shipped and gathered at Odaiba Marine Park, where they are tossed around by the lively crowds--all to the beat of Japanese instruments. 

A lesser-known attraction of Japan is the season of autumn, which brings alive the brilliant colors of nature, rivaling the deep reds and oranges of New England.  The Japanese have fall festivals to celebrate the harvest.  Produce and craft stalls line the streets while cherry blossoms are in full bloom overhead.