Yoyogi Park, one of Tokyo’s largest urban parks, transforms into an autumn wonderland from late November to early December. With over 1,000 zelkova, 200 ginkgo, and 100 maple trees, the park provides a stunning backdrop for picnics, leisurely walks, and seasonal photography. Its central location and accessibility make it a prime spot for experiencing Tokyo’s autumn beauty.
Overview
| Best viewing time | Early November to mid-December |
| Festivals | None |
| Illumination | None |
| Foliage types | Zelkova, ginkgo, maple |
| Business hours | Open 24 hours |
| Admission | Free |
| Related site(s) | Tokyo Metropolitan Park Association |
Why Yoyogi Park is Worth Visiting in Autumn
- Stunning Autumn Foliage: The park’s vast collection of zelkova, ginkgo, and maple trees create a vibrant display of red, yellow, and green.
- Golden Ginkgo Forest: Over 250 ginkgo trees turn golden yellow in late November, especially beautiful in the southern section of the park.
- Maple Photography Hotspots: Areas around the fountain pond offer ideal photography conditions, with reflections of crimson maples on the water.
- Tranquil Retreat: Despite being in the heart of Tokyo, Yoyogi Park offers a peaceful retreat from the city’s bustle.
Yoyogi Park Fall Foliage
Yoyogi Park’s expansive grounds offer visitors a rich palette of autumn colors. The southern side of the park is home to a spectacular ginkgo forest with over 250 trees that turn golden in late November. The maple trees near the central field and fountain pond create stunning contrasts of red and gold, making it a favorite spot for photographers. The zelkova-lined paths, with their mix of red, yellow, and green leaves, provide a beautiful setting for leisurely strolls.
Ginkgo Forest
The ginkgo trees, particularly near the Harajuku Gate, are a key attraction during autumn. This area becomes a golden sea of leaves, perfect for relaxed walks and photo opportunities.
Maple Leaves Spots
The fountain pond area is famous for its Japanese maple trees, whose leaves reflect beautifully on the water. Early morning and late afternoon provide the best lighting for capturing these scenes.
Yoyogi Park Facilities & Amenities
The park offers a variety of amenities to enhance visitors’ experiences. A cycling center rents bikes for exploring the park’s pathways, while the dog run provides a space for pet owners to exercise their dogs amidst the fall colors. The observation deck near the west gate offers panoramic views of the park’s autumn transformation. Restrooms, vending machines, and free Wi-Fi can be found near the west gate, ensuring comfort for all visitors.
Dining Options
While Yoyogi Park has limited dining options, three small cafés are scattered around the park. These include one near the Harajuku gate and another near the Sangūbashi gate. Food trucks often appear during events, particularly around the event plaza. For a memorable picnic experience, consider picking up takeout from CAMELBACK sandwich&espresso just outside the park. For an upscale option, TREE by NAKED offers autumn-themed dishes with ingredients like figs and grapes.
Travel Tips
- Bring a waterproof blanket for picnics, as the ground may be damp.
- Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for the best photography lighting.
- Consider renting a bicycle to explore the park’s extensive paths.
- Join weekend events or flea markets for added entertainment during your visit.
- Dress in layers as autumn temperatures can vary, especially in the mornings and evenings.
How to Get to Yoyogi Park
- By JR Line: 3-minute walk from Harajuku Station
- By Tokyo Metro: 5-minute walk from Meiji-Jingumae Station
- By Bus: Multiple bus routes stop near the park, including the Yoyogi Park West Gate bus stop.
