BEST PARK OVER TOKYO
Japanese culture, one of the most popular in the world, is mainly defined by manga, arcade halls, and its numerous temples and shrines. In the heart of Tokyo’s busiest districts, you can also find green spaces, true breaths of fresh air. From January to December, each season offers a new discovery.
Common rules for Tokyo parks:
- Closed at the end of the year (from 12/29 to 01/01)
- Often require an entrance fee (150 – 300 ¥ per ticket), with reduced rates for those over 65 and schoolchildren
- Frequent presence of tea houses
- Annual passes available (quickly worthwhile if you live in Japan)
Shinjuku Gyoen Park
Let’s start with the most famous park in Tokyo. Located in the heart of the Shinjuku district, it is one of the largest parks in Tokyo. During cherry blossom season, the approximately 1,000 cherry trees attract many Tokyoites. The park has three entrances, one of which is located a 6-minute walk from the south exit of Shinjuku Station. The park is divided into three gardens:
- A traditional Japanese garden: Frequently visited by tourists, it offers an immersive experience in Japanese style. It features two tea houses and numerous ponds. The main area is centered around Kyu-Gyoro-Tei, a Taiwanese-style pavilion dating back to 1924. If you want to admire blossoming trees, you’ll mainly find plum trees here (2024 bloom: around February 20).
- A French-style garden: Located on the eastern edge of the park, it showcases many roses (2024 bloom: mid-October).
- The “landscape garden” area: A very popular spot for Tokyoites, where you’ll find large grassy areas perfect for sitting and enjoying the cherry blossoms (2024 bloom: early April).
- The park also includes a greenhouse with a variety of flowers from tropical regions.
Details:
Opening hours:
- 01/10 – 14/03: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
- 15/03 – 30/06 and 21/08 – 30/09: 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM
- 01/07 – 20/08: 9:00 AM to 6:30 PM
- Open: Tuesday to Sunday
Price: 500 ¥
Access: Three entrances, near Shinjuku and Sendagaya stations
Further information: Website
Sunny day - Shinjuku Gyoen
Sakura - Shinjuku Gyoen
Momiji - Shinjuku Gyoen
Yoyogi Park
Located near the Meiji-Jingu Shrine in the Harajuku district, Yoyogi Park is one of the most visited parks in the capital. Unlike other parks, it is free of charge. Whether it’s music groups, dancers, athletes, or people walking their dogs, Yoyogi Park is a popular destination for Tokyoites, especially on weekends. The park features ponds and large green spaces where you can relax. You’ll also find many sports facilities such as soccer fields and basketball courts. On weekends, it’s very common to see cultural festivals celebrating other countries (e.g., festivals of China, Vietnam, etc.).
Details:
Open: Every days
Price: Free
Access: Near Harajuku/Yoyogi-Koen Stations
Further information: Website
kite - Yoyogi Park
Rockabilly Dancers - Yoyogi park entrance
Chinois festival - Yoyogi Park
Yasuda Garden
We’re moving on to a completely different type of park. Unlike the previous two, this one is relatively small. Located next to the Japanese Sword Museum and close to the Edo Museum, it is situated in the Ryogoku district, known for its sumo tournaments. While not many people talk about it, having lived nearby, I can say it’s a very pleasant place for a stroll. Centered around a lake, its Japanese style is quite distinctive. Many couples wearing kimono come here to take photos.
Details:
Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM; open every day
Price: Free
Access: Near Ryogoku Station
Further information: Website
Traditionnal bridge - Yasuda Garden
wedding photo - Yasuda Garden
Traditionnal light - Yasuda Garden
Hama-Rikyu Garden
Located in the heart of Shiodome’s business district and its towering skyscrapers, Hama-Rikyu Garden, which dates back to the Edo period (1603–1868), was created by the Tokugawa family. Reserved for many years for the imperial family, it was opened to the public in 1946. At its center is a tidal pond called Shioiri-no-ike, meaning “Tide Pond,” with a teahouse located in the middle. Around this pond, you can find two traditional houses from the Edo period. If you’re interested, guided tours are available (some are only in Japanese).
Details:
Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; open every day
(Closing times may vary depending on the season.)
Price: ¥300
Access: Near Shiodome Station (7 mins) and Shimbashi Station (12 mins)
Further information: Website
External of traditional house - Hama Rikyu
Maison traditionnellle - Hama Rikyu
Koishikawa Korakuen
Unlike the previous parks, Koishikawa Korakuen is renowned for its traditional style. Like many parks, Koishikawa Korakuen is located right in the heart of the city, close to Tokyo Dome (a venue for concerts and baseball games). Similar to Hama-Rikyu, this garden, dating back to the Edo period, is one of the oldest parks in Tokyo. Visitors can enjoy a variety of flowers, including plum and cherry blossoms, irises, and wisteria. The park is especially famous for its stunning maple leaves during the momiji season.
Details:
Opening hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM; open every day
(Closing times may vary depending on the season.)
Price: ¥300
Access: Near Itabashi Station (3 mins) and Suidobashi Station
Further information: Website
Special night event - Koishikawa Korakuen
Momiji - Koishikawa Korakuen
