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Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden: A Tranquil Oasis in Tokyo

Discover tranquility in the heart of Tokyo at Shinjuku Gyoen, a blend of garden styles offering seasonal beauty and a peaceful escape.

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Escape the bustling city at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, a sprawling 144-acre oasis blending Japanese, English, and French garden styles. Originally a feudal lord's residence, then an imperial garden, it's now a public park offering seasonal beauty and serene landscapes.

A brief summary to Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

  • Tuesday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Wednesday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Thursday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Friday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-5:30 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Visit during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) or autumn foliage season (mid-November to mid-December) for the most spectacular views.
  • Explore all three garden styles: Japanese, English, and French, to experience the diverse landscapes within the park.
  • Check the official website for seasonal events and potential reservation requirements, especially during peak seasons.
  • Pack a picnic to enjoy on the lawns, but be aware that alcoholic drinks are prohibited.
  • Utilize coin lockers at each gate to store belongings and enjoy the garden unencumbered.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Shinjuku Station, take the JR line to the 'New South Exit,' which is a 10-minute walk to the Shinjuku Gate. Alternatively, take the Marunouchi Subway Line to Shinjukugyoenmae Station; the Okido Gate is a 5-minute walk from Exit 1. A single subway fare in Tokyo typically costs ¥170-¥320 depending on the distance.

  • Walking

    From Shinjuku Station's 'New South Exit,' walk east for approximately 10 minutes to reach the Shinjuku Gate. The route is well-signposted. From Sendagaya Station, it's a 5-minute walk to the Sendagaya Gate. Note that Sendagaya Station has limited accessibility.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Shinjuku. A short taxi ride from Shinjuku Station to Shinjuku Gyoen will typically cost between ¥730-¥1000, plus any potential surcharges. Be sure to specify which gate you wish to access.

  • Parking

    If driving, use the Okido Gate entrance, which has a parking lot. Parking costs ¥600 for the first 2 hours, then ¥200 per 30 minutes, up to a maximum of ¥2900 per day. The parking lot is open from 7:30 am to 9:00 pm, but you can exit anytime. Limited accessible parking spaces are available.

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Discover more about Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden offers a refreshing escape from Tokyo's urban sprawl. Once the residence of Lord Naito during the Edo period (1603-1867), it later became an imperial garden in 1906 before opening to the public in 1949. The garden was almost completely destroyed during World War II, but was eventually rebuilt. Today, it stands as a testament to the preservation of natural and cultural heritage, offering a peaceful retreat for locals and tourists alike. The garden seamlessly blends three distinct garden styles: a traditional Japanese landscape garden with ponds, islands, and bridges; a formal French garden with symmetrical arrangements and vibrant flowers; and an English landscape garden featuring wide lawns and flowering cherry trees. The Japanese garden features well-manicured shrubs, pavilions and the Kyu Goryotei (Taiwan Pavilion). A greenhouse nurtures tropical and subtropical plants. Shinjuku Gyoen is renowned for its seasonal beauty. In spring, over 1,000 cherry trees bloom in various shades of pink. Autumn brings vibrant foliage, especially the maple trees around the Japanese garden and Momijiyama. The Chrysanthemum Exhibition in November adds another layer of color and tradition. Visitors can explore historical buildings, including the Former Western-Style Rest Station and the Former Goryotei Pavilion. The garden has also appeared in Makoto Shinkai's anime film, 'The Garden of Words'.

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