Visiting Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Editor note, updated 06/07/2024
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, located in the heart of Tokyo, serves as a quiet refuge from the high-energy pace of the city. This expansive 143-acre park, formerly a residence of the Imperial Family, has been open to the public since 1949. It is well-known for its curated landscapes and botanical variety, drawing both locals and travelers throughout the year.
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden blends three distinct design styles: a traditional Japanese garden, a formal French garden, and an English landscape garden.
The Japanese Garden
The Japanese garden is popular for its calm ponds, wooden bridges, and tea houses, providing a grounded experience of Japanese culture. The paths lined with cedars and azaleas in this section offer clear sightlines for photography and quiet spots for reflection.
The French Garden
The French garden, with its symmetrical flower beds and geometric pathways, provides an elegant walking space. During the spring, the rose gardens add color and fragrance to the area.
The English Garden
The English garden is defined by its wide, open lawns and large trees, creating a space suited for picnics and outdoor activities.
A setting for Sakura, cherry blossoms
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is also recognized 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 across various species, the blooming period is a significant local event.
The Tropical Greenhouse
The grounds also house a tropical greenhouse featuring a collection of exotic plants and rare flowers. Visitors can view 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 500 JPY (about $3.30) and are available at the entrance. A visit to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden provides a quiet, restorative break and a chance to see the natural landscape of Tokyo.
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.