Experts' Choice Award Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
What the experts agree on
This 150-acre former imperial estate blends Japanese, French, and English garden styles with historic significance from its days as a feudal lord's property. Now accessible to all, it's a serene escape minutes from Shinjuku Station, famous for its
“Though Shinjuku-gyōen was designed as an imperial retreat (completed 1906), it’s now definitively a park for everyone.”
– Lonely Planet
Frommer's "Formerly the private estate of a feudal lord and then of the Imperial family, this is considered one of the most important parks of the Meiji Era." Full review
Michelin Guide 3 Stars
"Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, which became the imperial garden after 1906, brings together several distinct styles ... also where the Prime Minister holds his annual hanami." Full review
Fodor's "This lovely 150-acre park was once the estate of the powerful Naito family of feudal lords, who were among the most trusted retainers of the Tokugawa shoguns." Full review
Afar Magazine "The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a gorgeous park that's just a short walk from Shinjuku Station." Full review
Travel + Leisure "In addition to housing native, traditional gardens, you'll find landscapes inspired by French and English gardens and beautiful water features."
Tokyo Travel Guide
July 15, 2021
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If you can swing it, make a plan to visit during cherry blossom season when the gardens are particularly breathtaking.
Condé Nast Traveler "What’s the vibe here?Fancy a stroll in a Japanese garden? Get that and more at Shinjuku Gyoen. In addition to native, traditional gardens, the 144-acre park pockets French Formal and..." Full review
Time Out "Famous for its appearance in Makoto Shinkai’s hit anime film The Garden of Words, the expansive Shinjuku Gyoen was originally a private estate before opening to the public in 1946. It..." Full review
National Geographic "Thousands of people gather in Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, Tokyo, to picnic under blooming cherry blossom trees during Japan's annual flower-viewing celebration. Clouds of pink blot..."
Rough Guide "Begin your adventure in the verdant expanse of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city"
Lonely Planet "Completed in 1906, Shinjuku-gyoen was designed as an imperial retreat. What was then the western fringe of the capital is now one of its most built-up, busy districts – Shinjuku. Since..."
