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Otaguro Park: A Tranquil Escape in Tokyo

Discover tranquility in Tokyo's Otaguro Park: A historic Japanese garden with vibrant foliage, a serene pond, and a glimpse into musical history.

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Otaguro Park, once the residence of music critic Motoo Otaguro, is a serene Japanese garden in Tokyo's Suginami ward. It offers a peaceful retreat with traditional landscaping, a tea room, and a memorial hall showcasing Otaguro's Steinway piano.

A brief summary to Otaguro Park

  • Monday 9 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the autumn foliage season (late November to early December) for the most spectacular views and evening illuminations.
  • Arrive early during the illumination events to secure a good spot, as the park can get crowded with photography enthusiasts.
  • Take a moment to appreciate the serene atmosphere and listen to the sounds of nature, a welcome respite from the city's hustle and bustle.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    The most convenient way to reach Otaguro Park is via public transport. Take the JR Chuo Line or the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line to Ogikubo Station. From the station's South Exit, it's a straightforward 10-minute walk to the park. Typical cost for a single subway ride in Tokyo ranges from ¥100-¥200. The JR Chuo Line from Shinjuku Station to Ogikubo Station costs between ¥160-¥290.

  • Walking

    From Ogikubo Station's South Exit, Otaguro Park is an easy 10-minute walk. Head south from the station and follow the signs. The route is mostly flat and passes through a residential area. There are no costs associated with walking.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Ogikubo Station. A short taxi ride to Otaguro Park takes approximately 5 minutes. The flag-down fare in Tokyo is around ¥500-¥750 for the first 1.052 kilometers. Additional distance is charged at approximately ¥90 per 280 meters. Therefore, a short taxi ride from Ogikubo Station to Otaguro Park will likely cost between ¥730-¥1000.

Unlock the Best of Otaguro Park

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Discover more about Otaguro Park

Otaguro Park, nestled in the quiet residential area of Ogikubo in Tokyo's Suginami ward, offers visitors a tranquil escape from the bustling city. This Japanese garden was once the estate of Motoo Otaguro (1893-1979), a renowned music critic who introduced composers like Debussy and Stravinsky to Japan. The park opened to the public in 1981, fulfilling Otaguro's wish to share his beloved property with the community. The park's design incorporates traditional Japanese garden elements, including a central pond filled with colorful koi carp, a stone bridge, meticulously placed rocks, and a pavilion offering picturesque views. A stone-paved walkway meanders through the garden, showcasing the natural stream and the carefully cultivated flora. Towering ginkgo trees, some over a century old, line the entrance path, creating a stunning golden canopy in autumn. Other large trees, such as zelkova and red pine, add to the park's lush greenery. Otaguro's former residence, a Western-style building unusual for its time, now serves as a memorial hall. Inside, visitors can view his cherished 1900 Steinway & Sons piano and phonograph, offering a glimpse into his life and work. A traditional tea room provides a space for experiencing Japanese culture through tea ceremonies, ikebana flower arranging, and shodo calligraphy (reservations required). The park is particularly renowned for its autumn foliage, when the Japanese maple trees transform into a vibrant tapestry of red and gold. During late November and early December, the park hosts evening illuminations, enhancing the beauty of the autumn colors with enchanting light displays. The reflection of the illuminated leaves on the pond creates a magical and unforgettable scene.

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