Exploring the Tranquility of Kokyo Gaien National Garden
Discover the serene beauty of Kokyo Gaien National Garden, a tranquil oasis in Tokyo featuring lush landscapes, historical landmarks, and seasonal wonders.
Kokyo Gaien National Garden, located in the bustling heart of Tokyo, is a sprawling national park that invites visitors to step into a tranquil world of nature and history. This expansive green space surrounds the Imperial Palace, providing a breathtaking contrast to the city's urban landscape. As you wander through the garden, you will encounter meticulously maintained landscapes featuring a variety of Japanese trees, seasonal flowers, and serene ponds that reflect the beauty of the surroundings. The park is particularly stunning during cherry blossom season in spring and the vibrant foliage in autumn, drawing both locals and tourists to experience its natural splendor. The garden not only serves as a peaceful retreat but also as a cultural hub. Visitors can explore several historic structures within the park, including traditional tea houses and impressive stone walls that hint at the area’s rich history. With its wide, well-maintained pathways, Kokyo Gaien is perfect for leisurely strolls, jogging, or enjoying a quiet picnic with family and friends. The park is also a popular spot for photography enthusiasts, who flock to capture the perfect shot of the natural beauty against the backdrop of the Imperial Palace. As you enjoy the serene surroundings, keep an eye out for seasonal events and activities that showcase Japanese culture, such as tea ceremonies and traditional performances. Kokyo Gaien National Garden is not just a park; it’s a blend of nature, culture, and history, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo. Whether you're here for a moment of reflection, a leisurely walk, or a cultural experience, this garden provides a peaceful sanctuary that enriches your travel experience in Japan.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to enjoy the garden with fewer crowds.
- Bring a picnic blanket and enjoy a serene meal surrounded by nature.
- Check the seasonal events calendar for cultural activities and performances.
- Don’t forget your camera to capture the stunning views, especially during cherry blossom season.
- Wear comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking to fully explore the garden.
A brief summary to Kokyo Gaien National Garden
- 1-1 Kokyogaien, Chiyoda City, Kokyogaien, Tokyo, 100-0002, JP
- +813-3231-5509
- Visit website
- Monday 6 am-7 pm
- Tuesday 6 am-7 pm
- Wednesday 6 am-7 pm
- Thursday 6 am-7 pm
- Friday 6 am-7 pm
- Saturday 8 am-5 pm
Getting There
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Car
From Hitachi, take the Joban Expressway (E6) heading towards Tokyo. The drive should take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic. Follow the signs for Tokyo and take the exit for Shinjuku. Once you exit, continue on Route 20 towards Marunouchi. Use the GPS coordinates (35.680116, 139.758312) to find Kokyo Gaien National Garden. Parking is available near the entrance, but be prepared to pay a fee (approximately 1000-2000 JPY for a few hours).
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Public Transportation
Start at Hitachi Station and take the Joban Line train towards Ueno. This journey takes about 1.5 hours. Once you arrive at Ueno Station, transfer to the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line and take the train towards Shibuya. Get off at the Nihonbashi Station. From there, transfer to the Toei Subway Oedo Line and get off at the Sakuradamon Station. The Kokyo Gaien National Garden is a short walk from the station. Look for the signs directing you towards the garden. The total cost for the train journey is approximately 2000 JPY.
Attractions Nearby to Kokyo Gaien National Garden
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Kokyo-mae Hiroba
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Meiji Seimei Kan
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Nijubashi Moat
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Marunouchi Street Gallery
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Wadakura Fountain National Park
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Nijubashi Bridge
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Sakurada-mon
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Kikyō-mon Gate
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Remains of Wadakuramon Gate Guardhouse
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Imperial Theatre
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Chowaden (Reception Hall of lmperial Palace)
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Wadakura-mon Gate
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The Place of Death of Date Masamune
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Flowerbed 1
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Hyakunin Bansho Guardhouse
Landmarks nearby to Kokyo Gaien National Garden
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Mitsubishi Ichigokan Museum
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Tokyo International Forum
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Remains of Tokyo Prefectural Office
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LIVE JAPAN office
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Imperial Palace East Gardens
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The East Gardens of the Imperial Palace
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Tokyo Station
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Imperial Hotel Tokyo
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Young Clock Tower
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Japanese Geodetic Origin Point
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Angel of Ginza
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Origin of Ginza Monument
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Ginza Pedestrian Paradise
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Ginza Graphic Gallery
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Kabuki-za