Hibiya Park, Tokyo’s first Western-style park, offers a stunning autumn spectacle, combining history, nature, and urban charm. Nestled in the heart of the bustling business district, the park transforms from late November to early December into a sea of vivid red, orange, and golden hues. Its serene Kumogata Pond, grand Ginkgo Avenue, and the vibrant Momijiyama Maple Tunnel provide perfect spots for foliage viewing, photography, and peaceful autumn strolls.
| Place | Hibiya Park (日比谷公園) |
| Best Viewing Time | Late November to early December |
| Festival | None |
| Illumination | None |
| Foliage | Ginkgo, Japanese maple, dogwood, zelkova, Chinese tallow |
| Business Hours | Open 24 hours |
| Admission | Free |
| Related Site | Tokyo Metropolitan Park Association |
Why Hibiya Park is Worth Visiting in Autumn
- Stunning Autumn Foliage: Ginkgo trees glow in vibrant gold, while Japanese maples and other trees create a blend of red and yellow hues.
- Historical Design: The park’s layout, including the iconic S-shaped ginkgo pathway, preserves the charm of its 1903 origins.
- Urban Oasis: Surrounded by skyscrapers, the park provides a tranquil escape from the busy Tokyo streets, offering peaceful reflections in Kumogata Pond.
- Cultural Landmarks: Historic structures like Hibiya Public Hall and outdoor music events add depth to the park experience.
- Accessibility and Convenience: Easily reachable from multiple Tokyo metro lines, making it a convenient stop for tourists.
Hibiya Park Fall Foliage
Hibiya Park offers an exceptional fall foliage experience, where visitors can enjoy a mixture of tree varieties that showcase a full spectrum of autumn colors. The most iconic sight is the S-shaped ginkgo tree-lined avenue, whose golden leaves form a glowing tunnel in late autumn. Around the Kumogata Pond, the vibrant red of irohamomiji (Japanese maples) contrasts beautifully with the surrounding greenery and golden ginkgo. The reflection of these trees in the pond, especially during the light-up events in the evening, creates a magical atmosphere that feels far removed from the urban environment.
Key Viewing Spots
- Kumogata Pond: The surrounding trees, especially the maples and dogwoods, reflect in the water, creating a tranquil scene.
- S-shaped Ginkgo Avenue: This iconic path, lined with ginkgo trees, turns into a golden spectacle, perfect for a peaceful autumn walk.
- Hibiya Public Hall: Enjoy the striking contrast of the hall’s architecture with the colorful foliage.
Hibiya Park Facilities & Amenities
Hibiya Park is well-equipped with various amenities. Visitors can explore historic landmarks like the Hibiya Public Hall and enjoy outdoor concerts at the Large and Small Music Halls. The park also has tennis courts and a children’s playground, making it family-friendly. For those with mobility needs, the park offers multi-functional restrooms, and wheelchair and stroller accessibility is excellent. Additionally, the Hibiya Library & Museum provides cultural enrichment with a collection of 800,000 books and regular events.
Dining Options
Hibiya Park offers a variety of dining experiences that perfectly complement an autumn visit. One of the most notable options is Matsumotoro, a historic restaurant that opened in 1903 alongside the park’s establishment. Known for its Japanese-style Western cuisine, it serves popular dishes like Hayashi rice and hamburg steak in a nostalgic setting. Another favorite is Hibiya Saroh, a garden restaurant founded in 1949. Visitors can enjoy a range of international beers and multi-national dishes while taking in views of the park’s autumn foliage from the open terrace. For those seeking a more refined dining experience, Hibiya Palace offers French cuisine, including a seasonal afternoon tea, making it an ideal choice for special occasions or a leisurely meal surrounded by nature. Additionally, the park’s proximity to the Ginza and Yurakucho districts ensures visitors have access to a variety of restaurants and cafes, offering both casual and fine dining options nearby.
Travel Tips
- Peak viewing time: Late November to early December, but the dates can vary with weather conditions.
- Best times to visit: Early mornings and late afternoons on weekdays offer a more peaceful experience.
- Photography tips: Popular spots include the pond for reflections and the “Kubi-kake Ginkgo” for its historic significance.
- Accessibility: The park is stroller and wheelchair friendly, with accessible restrooms throughout.
How to Get to Hibiya Park
By Train
Hibiya Park is conveniently located in central Tokyo, with excellent access via multiple public transportation options. Visitors can reach the park with just a 2-minute walk from several metro stations. From Kasumigaseki Station on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi and Chiyoda Lines, as well as from Hibiya Station on the Hibiya, Chiyoda, and Toei Mita Lines, it’s a short stroll to the park’s main entrances. Uchisaiwaicho Station on the Toei Mita Line is also just 2 minutes away by foot, while Yurakucho Station on the JR Yamanote and Keihin-Tohoku Lines is about a 6-8 minute walk.
By Car
For those traveling by car, Hibiya Park has a nearby underground parking lot, but due to potential weekend and event crowds, public transportation is recommended for the most convenient access.
