Visiting Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, located right in the middle of Tokyo, is a peaceful green space offering a calm escape from the frantic pace of the city. This magnificent park, formerly an imperial family residence, has been open to the public since 1949 and covers 58 hectares. It is known for its landscaped grounds and botanical diversity, drawing locals and travelers alike.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden blends three distinct garden styles: a traditional Japanese garden, a formal French garden, and an English landscape garden.
The Japanese garden
The Japanese garden is especially popular for its quiet ponds, wooden bridges, and tea houses, offering an authentic experience of Japanese culture. Pathways lined with cedars and azaleas within the Japanese garden provide great photo backdrops and quiet spots for reflection.
The French garden
The French garden, with its symmetrical flowerbeds and geometric pathways, makes for an elegant walk. In the spring, the blooming rose gardens add a colorful and fragrant touch.
The English garden
The English garden features wide open lawns and mature trees, providing an ideal setting for picnics and outdoor activities.
A haven for cherry blossoms
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is also famous for its cherry blossoms, drawing thousands of visitors each year during the sakura season, between late March and early May. With over 1,000 cherry trees representing various species, the spring bloom is an incredible sight.
The tropical greenhouse
The grounds also house a tropical greenhouse with an impressive collection of exotic plants and rare flowers. Visitors can see orchids, bromeliads, and ferns in a climate-controlled environment.
Accessible from Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station, the park is open from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM, closed on Mondays. Tickets are reasonably priced at 500 JPY for adults and available at the entrance. A visit to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden provides a quiet and rewarding break, perfect for recharging and experiencing Tokyo's natural side.
A beautiful oasis to forget the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. This vast park makes you feel like you are traveling from one place to another. Between the greenhouse and its exotic species, the French, Japanese, and English gardens, you are in for quite a few surprises. Plan a full afternoon to discover every corner. Perfect for outdoor activities or admiring the cherry blossoms.