Asukayama Park, located in Kita Ward, Tokyo, is one of the city’s oldest public parks. With its rich history, beautiful seasonal landscapes, and family-friendly features, it offers a relaxing escape from the urban bustle. Famous for its nearly 700 cherry trees, the park attracts crowds during the sakura season for its annual cherry blossom festival. Beyond its natural beauty, Asukayama Park is a cultural hub, home to fascinating museums and quirky features like the Asukargo monorail.
Why Visit Asukayama Park?
- Historic Significance: Established in the Edo period by Tokugawa Yoshimune, it was one of the first public parks in Tokyo and played a key role in democratizing cherry blossom viewing.
- Seasonal Beauty: Nearly 700 cherry trees bloom in spring, creating a stunning landscape perfect for hanami. Autumn also brings vibrant foliage.
- Unique Features: The Asukargo monorail and family-friendly attractions make it an exciting visit for all ages.
- Cultural Experiences: The park houses three museums, offering a deep dive into local history, culture, and industry.
A Glimpse Into History: Tokugawa Yoshimune’s Vision
The park’s history traces back to the Edo period when Tokugawa Yoshimune, the eighth shogun, began planting cherry trees to create public hanami spaces. Before his initiative, enjoying cherry blossoms was a privilege reserved for the elite. By planting cherry trees at Asukayama and other spots, Yoshimune made hanami accessible to commoners. Today, the blossoms serve as a living legacy of his vision, continuing to delight visitors each spring.
Riding the Asukargo Monorail
The Asukargo monorail, a free self-propelled ride, offers an easy and quirky way to ascend the park’s hill. Operating daily (except during year-end holidays), it’s perfect for families, children, and anyone seeking a fun start to their park experience. Its slow pace ensures you can enjoy the view, making it one of Tokyo’s most unique transportation methods.
Vintage Locomotive Display
In the playground area of Asukayama Park, visitors will find a fascinating slice of Japan’s railway history: a preserved JNR Class D51 steam locomotive. This iconic train, which operated from 1943 to 1972, is a relic of Japan’s industrial past and a treat for train enthusiasts. The locomotive is complemented by a Tokyo Sakura Tram car that was in service from 1949 to 1978, making this area a must-visit for those intrigued by transportation history.
These well-preserved pieces aren’t just static displays—they serve as interactive exhibits. Children can climb aboard, explore, and let their imaginations run wild, while adults can marvel at the craftsmanship and historical significance of these vehicles. The vintage locomotive and tram highlight the role of railways in shaping Tokyo and offer a nostalgic experience for visitors of all ages.
This unique addition to the park enhances its family-friendly atmosphere, blending education with play. Whether you’re a history buff, a train enthusiast, or a parent looking for a fun activity for the kids, the locomotive and tram displays are sure to leave a lasting impression.
Exploring the Three Museums of Asukayama
1. Kita-ku Asukayama Historical Museum
Dive into the history of Kita Ward with exhibits ranging from prehistoric tools to Edo-period artifacts. This museum provides an in-depth look at the area’s cultural and historical evolution.
2. The Paper Museum
Learn about the art and history of papermaking at one of the world’s most comprehensive paper-focused institutions. Interactive workshops let visitors craft their own recycled paper, offering a hands-on experience.
3. Shibusawa Memorial Museum
This museum celebrates Eiichi Shibusawa, known as the “father of Japanese capitalism.” Built on his former residence, it highlights his life and legacy, including his role in shaping modern Japan. Notable structures like the Bankoro cottage and Seien Bunko building add a historical charm to the visit.
Ajisai Road: A Summer Spectacle of Hydrangeas
Asukayama Park isn’t just a spring destination for cherry blossoms—it transforms into a lush, colorful retreat in June with the blooming of Ajisai Road, also known as Hydrangea Road or Asuka no Komichi. This 350-meter-long path, situated at the base of the park and running parallel to the JR railroad tracks, features 1,300 hydrangea plants of around 10 different varieties.
Walking along Ajisai Road during the rainy season feels magical. The pathway’s elevated position lets visitors immerse themselves in a vibrant sea of hydrangeas while also enjoying a panoramic view of the surrounding area. The blooms are at their peak in mid-June, with the rain accentuating their colors, making them appear even more vivid and luminous. Shades of blue, pink, and purple create a kaleidoscope of hues that shifts with the light and weather.
Travel Tips
- Plan for Sakura Season: If you’re visiting in spring, aim to arrive early in the morning during cherry blossom season to secure a good spot for hanami. The park can get crowded, especially during the annual cherry blossom festival.
- Family-Friendly Play Areas: The playground area with the SL train and tram displays is perfect for kids. Bring snacks or a small picnic to enjoy while your children explore these interactive exhibits.
- Museum Exploration: If you’re planning to visit the museums, allocate at least 1-2 hours for each. The Paper Museum often hosts hands-on workshops, so check the schedule ahead of time and reserve a slot if you’re interested.
- Picnic Spots and Rest Areas: The park has plenty of shaded seating areas, making it a great spot for a relaxing lunch. Grab a bento box from the nearby shops at Oji Station for an authentic local experience.
- Getting Around the Park: Wear comfortable shoes, as the park has some slopes and uneven paths. While the monorail helps with the ascent, exploring other areas requires some light walking.
- Explore Beyond Asukayama: You can get a one-day pass for the Tokyo Sakura Tram to explore nearby areas like Arakawa and Minowabashi. This is especially worthwhile during cherry blossom season when the tram route is lined with blooming trees. It’s a great way to extend your visit and discover hidden local gems.
Video
Asukayama Park is featured in this video about the Tokyo Sakura Tram. The segment starts at 4:37.
How to Get to Asukayama Park
By Train
Take the JR Keihin-Tohoku Line to Oji Station, or the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line to Oji Station. The park is just a short walk from the station.
By Bus
Local buses frequently stop near the park’s entrance, offering another convenient option for visitors.
