Shinjuku Gyoen Garden

Tuesday, August 27, 2019 Updated

Tokyo Shinjuku Gyoen National Park

Shinjuku Gyoen, one of Tokyo's most popular parks, is located in Shinjuku and Shibuya. It is one of Tokyo’s largest parks, spanning over 144 acres, and known for its spacious lawns, meandering walking paths, and tranquil scenery which provides a relaxing escape from the busy urban center surrounding it.

The park incorporates different beautiful gardens from different parts of the world. The garden is influenced by three styles: a traditional Japanese, an English Landscape, and the French Formal. The south side of the park incorporates a Japanese traditional garden, which by itself is known to be one of the most beautiful Japanese gardens in Tokyo. The Japanese garden features a large picturesque pond with bridges and islands, and even a teahouse where visitors can enjoy relax and sip on a cup of tea as they admire the beautiful garden.

Shinjuku Gyoen is beautiful year-round, but especially a popular spot to visit in the springtime. When the cherry trees start to bloom in the spring, Shinjuku Gyoen becomes one of the best places in the city to enjoy hanami, or cherry blossom viewing. Over 1,000 cherry trees bloom beautifully, covering the park in beautiful shades of pink and white. As you stroll through the park, you will see rows of families and friends enjoying each other's company and having a picnic under the beautiful sakura trees. Unlike most other hanami spots throughout Japan, Shinjuku Gyoen prohibits alcohol. There is also a small entrance fee of 200 yen (approx. $2) but as one of the most beautiful sites for hanami, the park fills up during the springtime.

Be sure to make time for a stroll through this gorgeous garden during your next trip to Tokyo. If you're looking for a great hanami spot, Shinjuku Gyoen definitely ranks amongst the top in the city. Join any of our Cherry Blossom Tours to witness with your own eyes the beauty of Japan.