Shinjuku Gyoen is a roughly 58-hectare national garden in the heart of Tokyo's Shinjuku district, evolving from an Edo-period feudal lord's residence into an imperial garden and now managed by Japan's Ministry of the Environment. It uniquely combines three landscaping styles in one space: a Japanese traditional garden, a French formal garden, and an English landscape garden, plus a large greenhouse. It is especially renowned for its spring cherry blossoms (around 65 varieties and roughly 1,000 trees) and its autumn foliage and chrysanthemum exhibition, making it one of central Tokyo's premier spots for a quiet stroll.
Three distinct garden styles in one place: Japanese traditional, French formal, and English landscape gardens
About 65 cherry varieties and roughly 1,000 trees give an unusually long blossom season from late March into mid-April
A large climate-controlled greenhouse displays tropical and subtropical plants year-round
Historic structures such as the former imperial rest house (Kyu-Goryotei) sit alongside wide open lawns
Autumn foliage and the November chrysanthemum (kiku) exhibition are signature seasonal draws
Good to know
RulesDrinking alcohol and bringing alcohol into the garden are prohibited, and bag inspections may be carried out at the entrance to enforce this.
RulesSports and play equipment such as balls, baseball gear, frisbees, and badminton, as well as skateboards, drones, and radio-controlled devices, are not allowed (only safe toys for elementary-age children are permitted in the designated children's area).
RulesPets are not allowed inside, smoking is banned throughout the garden, and bicycles may not be brought in.
SeasonDuring peak cherry blossom weekends and time slots (late March to early April), an advance timed-entry e-ticket reservation is required and often sells out quickly, so check and book ahead.
RulesThe garden is closed every Monday (or the next weekday if Monday is a holiday) and from December 29 to January 3, so confirm opening days before visiting.
MannersThis is a space intended for quiet walking and relaxation, so running through the lawns or playing loud speakers is discouraged.
Practical info
The nearest station is Shinjuku-gyoenmae on the Marunouchi subway line (about a 5-minute walk); JR Shinjuku Station's south exit is about a 10-minute walk. Admission is roughly ¥500 for adults, ¥250 for high-school students and seniors 65+, and free for junior-high age and under, but fees and opening hours vary by season, so check the official site for the latest details before you go.
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