Shinjuku Gyoen Tickets

Shinjuku Gyoen is the great exhale in the middle of Tokyo. Minutes from the busiest railway station on Earth, its lawns, groves and ponds spread across a former imperial garden so generously that the skyscrapers shrink to a rumour beyond the trees. Locals treat it as their picnic ground, and travellers quickly learn to do the same.

Three gardens in one

The grounds blend a formal French garden, a sweeping English style landscape lawn and a refined Japanese garden complete with teahouses and arched bridges, so a single circuit delivers three distinct moods. Spring brings one of Tokyo’s most celebrated cherry blossom displays, with more than a thousand trees of many varieties stretching the season for weeks. Autumn answers with maples and golden ginkgo, while the tropical greenhouse earns its keep in winter.

Visiting well

Note that Shinjuku Gyoen is a paid national garden with gates that close in the evening and a regular closing day early in the week outside peak blossom periods, so check days before you go. Alcohol is not permitted, which keeps hanami here calmer than in the party parks. Give it two unhurried hours minimum.

Getting there

Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station on the Marunouchi Line lands you beside the main gate, one stop from Shinjuku-sanchome. From the south exits of JR Shinjuku Station the walk takes about ten minutes. Sendagaya Station on the Chuo-Sobu Line serves the quieter western gate.

Frequently asked questions

When is the best time for blossoms? Late March into April most years, with early and late blooming varieties extending either side.

Can I bring food? Yes, picnics are welcome on the lawns, minus alcohol.

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