Here are the updated entry timings and fees for Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden in 2025:Entry Timings:
- October 1st to March 14th:
9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (Last entry at 4:00 PM, gates close at 4:30 PM)
- March 15th to September 30th:
9:00 AM to 5:30 PM (Last entry at 5:30 PM, gates close at 6:00 PM)
- Extended Hours (July 1st to August 20th):
9:00 AM to 6:30 PM (Last entry at 6:30 PM, gates close at 7:00 PM)
Entry Fees:
Adults: 299 INR
Seniors (65 years and older) & High School Students: 150 INR (ID required)
Children (15 years and under): Free
The garden is closed on Mondays, except during peak seasons like cherry blossom season (March 25th – April 24th) and autumn foliage season (November 1st – 15th), when it remains open even on Mondays. Additionally, the garden is closed during the New Year holidays from December 29th to January 3rd.
Be sure to check for any updates on Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden tickets and timings before your visit, especially during special events or holidays.
Shinjuku Gyoen Park is one of the most peaceful and beautiful places in Tokyo. Located right in the middle of the busy Shinjuku area, it offers a perfect escape from the city’s hustle and bustle. This park is full of different gardens, walking paths, and activities that people of all ages can enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a quiet place to relax or something fun to do with friends or family, this park has it all. You must also experience the Nightlife scene in Tokyo afterward. 1. Cherry Blossom Viewing (Hanami)
One of the most popular things to do in Tokyo’s Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is cherry blossom viewing, also known as “hanami.” In late March and early April, the park turns into a magical pink wonderland as the cherry trees bloom. Families, friends, and tourists gather to have picnics under the beautiful cherry trees. The park is home to over 1,000 cherry trees, and it’s considered one of the best places in Tokyo to see cherry blossoms.
Tip: Arrive early to secure a good spot for a picnic under the blooming cherry trees.
2. Walking Through Different Garden Styles
Shinjuku Gyoen Park is special because it combines three different garden styles in one place.
– The Japanese Traditional Garden is a peaceful area with ponds, bridges, and tea houses. You can enjoy a quiet walk and take in the beauty of traditional Japanese landscaping.
– The French Formal Garden has neatly arranged flower beds and tree-lined paths. It’s a great spot for photos and a relaxing stroll.
– The English Landscape Garden is an open space with a large grassy area, perfect for picnics and relaxing.
Each garden has its unique beauty, making it one of the most diverse gardens in Tokyo.
Suggested Read: Tokyo Tower
3. Enjoying Seasonal Changes
One of the best things about Shinjuku Gyoen Park is how it changes with the seasons.
– In spring, you can enjoy cherry blossoms and other blooming flowers.
– In summer, the park is green, offering a cool escape from the heat.
– Autumn brings stunning red, orange, and yellow leaves, making it a popular place to see fall colors.
– Even in winter, the park remains beautiful with its evergreen trees and peaceful atmosphere.
Each season offers something new, making the park worth visiting year-round.
4. Photography
If you love taking photos, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is the perfect place. The different gardens, seasonal flowers, and peaceful scenery provide endless photo opportunities. Many people visit the park to capture the beauty of the cherry blossoms or the colorful autumn leaves. Even on a regular day, the garden’s quiet paths and ponds make for stunning pictures.
5. Tea Ceremony at Rakuu-tei Teahouse
For a traditional Japanese experience, visit Rakuu-tei, a teahouse located in the Japanese garden. Here, you can participate in a traditional tea ceremony and enjoy a cup of matcha (green tea) along with Japanese sweets. The view from the teahouse, overlooking the pond and gardens, makes the experience even more special.
6. Picnicking in the Park
Picnicking is a popular activity in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, especially in the English Landscape Garden. You can bring your food and enjoy a relaxing meal surrounded by nature. Families, couples, and friends often gather here to enjoy a picnic under the cherry trees or on the open lawn.
7. Visiting Historical Buildings
The park is also home to a few historical structures, like the Taiwan Pavilion, which was built in 1928. This beautiful building, located near a pond, adds a touch of history and culture to your visit. It’s a great spot to learn more about the park’s past and take in its unique architecture. You must stay at one of the best Hotels in Tokyo located nearby.
Suggested Read: Mount Fuji, Japan
8. Exploring Plant Life
Shinjuku Gyoen Park is home to a wide variety of plants and trees, making it a great place for nature lovers. Informational signs throughout the park provide details about the different plant species, so you can learn more about the local flora. It’s also a great educational experience for kids who want to explore and learn about plants.
9. Shopping for Souvenirs
Before leaving the park, stop by the visitor center for souvenir shopping in Tokyo. You can find items like postcards, traditional Japanese crafts, and even plant seeds. These souvenirs are great things to buy in Shinjuku Gyoen Park and make for thoughtful gifts or keepsakes to remember your visit.
10. Relaxing at Cafes
There are several cafes and snack bars inside the park where you can take a break and enjoy a cup of coffee or a light snack. Sitting in one of these restaurants in Tokyo while overlooking the gardens is a relaxing way to spend part of your day. It’s a perfect way to recharge before continuing your exploration of one of Tokyo’s most beautiful gardens and parks.
Suggested Read: Meiji Jingu Shrine
