Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
Kanto Region
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a sprawling 58.3-hectare park in Tokyo, Japan, renowned for its harmonious blend of three garden styles: French Formal, English Landscape, and traditional Japanese. Originally the Edo-period residence of the Naitō family, it was transformed into an imperial garden with a layout designed by French landscape architect Henry Martinet in 1906. The garden boasts over 20,000 trees, including approximately 1,500 cherry trees that bloom spectacularly from late March to late April, making it a beloved hanami spot. It also features a traditional Japanese tea house and a greenhouse housing more than 1,700 tropical and subtropical plant species. Despite suffering damage during World War II, Shinjuku Gyoen was restored and reopened to the public in 1949. Its accessibility via multiple Tokyo Metro lines and gates makes it a peaceful urban oasis, blending natural beauty with rich cultural history and horticultural excellence.
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Tip: Visit during cherry blossom season from late March to April for breathtaking views, but expect large crowds and consider booking reservations in advance for peak days. The garden is closed on Mondays except during cherry blossom and chrysanthemum seasons. Access via Shinjuku-gyoemmae, Sendagaya, or Shinjuku-sanchōme stations is convenient. Early morning visits may offer a quieter experience. Check the official website for updated opening hours and any special events or early opening days.
Interesting facts
- •Shinjuku Gyoen blends three distinct garden styles: French Formal, English Landscape, and traditional Japanese.
- •The garden contains approximately 1,500 cherry trees, including several varieties that bloom at different times from late March to late April.
- •The greenhouse within the garden houses over 1,700 species of tropical and subtropical plants.
- •Most of the garden was destroyed in World War II air raids except for the Taiwan Pavilion, which survived.
- •The garden was the site of Emperor Hirohito's state funeral rites in 1989.
History
The land of Shinjuku Gyoen was granted in 1590 by shōgun Tokugawa Ieyasu to the Naitō family, who completed a garden here in 1772.
After the Meiji Restoration, it became an experimental agricultural station and then an imperial botanical garden.
In 1906, it was remodeled into a landscape garden by Henry Martinet, opening officially with Emperor Meiji present.
The garden was heavily damaged during World War II air raids but was restored and opened to the public in 1949.
It transitioned through various government jurisdictions and remains under the Ministry of the Environment.
Notably, the state funeral of Emperor Hirohito was held here in 1989.
Place Guide
French Formal and English Landscape Garden1906
Located in the northern part of the garden, this area showcases manicured lawns, symmetrical flower beds, and winding paths typical of Western garden design, offering a serene and elegant environment.
Traditional Japanese Garden1906
Situated in the southern part of Shinjuku Gyoen, this garden features classic elements such as a pond, stone lanterns, and a traditional tea house, embodying Japanese aesthetics and tranquility.
Greenhouse1950s
A large greenhouse built in the 1950s housing over 1,700 species of tropical and subtropical plants, continuing the garden’s horticultural tradition dating back to 1892.
Contact
Phone: 03-3350-0151