Shinjuku Gyoen is one of Tokyo’s largest and most beautiful gardens, a tranquil green oasis of over 58 hectares set right beside the skyscrapers and bustle of Shinjuku. Originally a feudal lord’s residence and later an imperial garden, it opened to the public after the war. Its special charm lies in combining three distinct landscape styles in one park: a spacious, manicured French formal garden with symmetrical flowerbeds and plane-tree avenues; a wide, rolling English landscape garden of open lawns and mature trees; and a classical Japanese garden with ponds, bridges, islands and a traditional teahouse. There’s also a large greenhouse of tropical plants. Famous for its spectacular cherry blossoms in spring (with many varieties extending the season) and beautiful autumn foliage, it’s a peaceful place to stroll, picnic and escape the city — a small entry fee keeps it calmer than free parks.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Shinjuku, Tokyo |
| Hours | ~9:00–16:00/18:00 (closed Mon) |
| Admission | Paid (low) |
| Time needed | 1.5–2 hours |
| Best time | Cherry blossom spring; autumn |
What to See
- Japanese, English and French garden styles in one park.
- Spectacular cherry blossoms across many varieties in spring.
- Ponds, bridges and a traditional Japanese teahouse.
- A greenhouse and beautiful autumn foliage.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Shinjuku’s Omoide Yokocho nearby.
- Pair with Golden Gai in the evening.
- Read our Tokyo overview .
Getting There
- By train/subway: to Shinjuku-gyoenmae or Shinjuku stations.
- On foot: a short walk from Shinjuku Station.
Tips
Come in cherry-blossom season for one of Tokyo’s best hanami spots, where the many cherry varieties extend the blooming period, or in autumn for the foliage. Stroll all three garden styles, stop at the Japanese-garden teahouse for matcha, note it closes on Mondays, and enjoy a calmer atmosphere than the free parks thanks to the small entry fee.
