Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a tranquil oasis nestled in Tokyo’s bustling Shinjuku district. Renowned as one of the city’s premier cherry blossom destinations, this sprawling park offers a breathtaking display of over 1,000 cherry trees. With varieties blooming from mid-February to late April, Shinjuku Gyoen is a must-visit for sakura enthusiasts. Its meticulously designed landscapes, blending Japanese, English, and French garden styles, provide a serene retreat from the urban rush.

Why Shinjuku Gyoen is Worth Visiting

• Diverse Garden Landscapes: Featuring Japanese, English, and French garden styles, the park offers a unique blend of horticultural beauty.
• Extended Sakura Season: Over 65 cherry blossom varieties ensure blooms from February to April.
• Urban Escape: Located in the heart of Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen provides a tranquil contrast to the city’s vibrant pace.
• Historical Significance: Originally an imperial garden, Shinjuku Gyoen’s rich history adds depth to its natural allure.

Shinjuku Gyoen Cherry Blossoms

Shinjuku Gyoen is home to an impressive variety of cherry blossoms, including Somei Yoshino, Yaezakura, and Kanzakura. The park’s layout ensures stunning views throughout its 58-hectare grounds, with each area offering a unique perspective on the blossoms.

Highlights of Cherry Blossom Viewing

• Somei Yoshino Trees: The centerpiece of Shinjuku Gyoen’s sakura season, these iconic blossoms bloom from late March to early April, blanketing the park in soft pink hues.
• Kanzakura (Winter Cherry Blossoms): Found in the Japanese Garden, Kanzakura offers an early bloom, usually from late February to early March, showcasing delicate, pale-pink petals.
• Yaezakura: These late-blooming double-petaled varieties, including Kanzan and Fugenzo, extend the viewing season into late April.

Popular spots for cherry blossom viewing include the wide-open lawns of the English Landscape Garden and the cherry tree promenade near the Sendagaya Gate. Visitors can also enjoy the picturesque contrast of sakura against Tokyo’s urban skyline.

Facilities & Amenities

Shinjuku Gyoen’s three main gates—Shinjuku, Okido, and Sendagaya—provide convenient access. Information centers at these gates offer maps and guidance to visitors. Within the park, rest areas, cafes, and vending machines ensure a comfortable experience. The Rakuu-Tei tea house offers traditional matcha and sweets in a serene setting, while a greenhouse near the Okido Gate showcases tropical and subtropical plants.

Wheelchair rentals and accessible restrooms make the park welcoming for all visitors. Coin lockers at each gate provide secure storage for personal items, adding to the convenience of your visit.

Dining Options

Shinjuku Gyoen offers a variety of culinary experiences to complement your visit. Inside the park, the Central Rest House Cafe SASAYAIORI+Shinjuku Gyoen provides light meals and refreshments. For a traditional touch, the Rakuu-Tei tea house serves matcha and seasonal Japanese sweets. Nearby, Cafe La Boheme offers Italian cuisine with scenic views, while AUREOLE specializes in sophisticated dishes. Additionally, the park’s spacious lawns invite picnics under the cherry blossoms, a favorite among visitors.

Travel Tips

• Arrive Early: Shinjuku Gyoen can get crowded during peak sakura season, so plan to arrive early to secure a good spot.
• No Alcohol Allowed: Unlike many other hanami spots, Shinjuku Gyoen prohibits alcohol, making it a family-friendly destination.
• Pack a Picnic: While dining options are available, bringing your own food allows you to enjoy a picnic under the blossoms.

How to Get to Shinjuku Gyoen

Shinjuku Gyoen is easily accessible from various train stations. The Shinjuku Gate is a 10-minute walk from Shinjuku Station (JR, Keio, Odakyu lines). The Okido Gate is a 5-minute walk from Shinjuku-gyoemmae Station on the Marunouchi Line, and the Sendagaya Gate is a 5-minute walk from Sendagaya Station on the JR Sobu Line.

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