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Meiji Jingu Gyoen: A Tranquil Oasis in the Heart of Tokyo

Discover a serene escape in Tokyo's Meiji Jingu Gyoen, a historic garden offering natural beauty and tranquility in the heart of the city.

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Escape the urban bustle at Meiji Jingu Gyoen, the inner garden of Meiji Jingu Shrine. This serene 83,000 square meter garden offers a peaceful retreat with its diverse flora, historic features, and connection to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken.

A brief summary to Meiji Jingu Gyoen

  • Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during the iris blooming season in mid-June for a spectacular display of colors.
  • Arrive early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid crowds and enjoy a more tranquil experience.
  • Take your time to explore the garden's various features, including the tea house, pond, and Kiyomasa's Well.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the adjacent Meiji Jingu Shrine and Yoyogi Park for a full day of exploration.
  • Check the garden's opening hours, as they vary slightly depending on the season.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Harajuku Station (JR Yamanote Line), take the Omotesando Exit and walk south towards Meiji Jingu Shrine. Follow the signs to the Meiji Jingu Gyoen entrance, which is located along the great torii gates alley leading to the main grounds. The garden entrance is approximately a 10-15 minute walk from the station. Entry to the garden requires a 500 yen fee.

  • Walking

    From Yoyogi Park, head east towards Meiji Jingu Shrine. The Meiji Jingu Gyoen entrance is located to the south of the shrine grounds and next to the northwestern limit of Yoyogi Park. Follow the signs to the garden entrance. Entry to the garden requires a 500 yen fee.

  • Taxi

    Taxis can drop you off near the Meiji Jingu Shrine entrance. From there, follow the signs to Meiji Jingu Gyoen. A short taxi ride from Shibuya Station to Meiji Jingu Shrine costs approximately 1900-2300 yen and takes about 3 minutes. Entry to the garden requires a 500 yen fee.

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Discover more about Meiji Jingu Gyoen

Meiji Jingu Gyoen, also known as the Meiji Shrine Inner Garden or Yoyogi Gyoen, is a hidden gem located in the heart of Tokyo, adjacent to the Meiji Jingu Shrine and Yoyogi Park. This tranquil oasis offers visitors a serene escape from the city's vibrant energy. Spanning 83,000 square meters, the garden showcases a harmonious blend of natural beauty and historical significance. Its origins date back to the Edo period when it was part of the suburban residences of Kato Kiyomasa and later the Ii clan. During the Meiji period, the garden became an imperial garden under the supervision of the Imperial Household Agency and was frequently visited by Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The existence of this garden was a key factor in choosing the location of Meiji-jingu shrine in 1920. The garden features a variety of attractions, including an iris garden with 1,500 plants of 150 different species that bloom in early June. The Nan-chi Pond, covering 8,300 square meters, is fed by pure spring water and is home to various creatures. Kiyomasa's Well, named after the military commander who dug it around 400 years ago, is a renowned power spot. The Kakuun-tei Teahouse, commissioned by Emperor Meiji, overlooks Nan-chi Pond and served as a rest house for Empress Shoken. Throughout the year, the garden offers unique experiences with each season bringing its own charm. Pink azaleas bloom in spring, white and green water lilies in summer, and red maple trees in autumn.

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