In late March, I visited Shinjuku Gyoen to feel the arrival of spring. The vast grounds were filled with cherry blossoms just beginning to bud, and strolling leisurely under the warm sunlight was incredibly pleasant.
Shinjuku Gyoen became an Imperial Garden in 1906 (Meiji 39) and was opened to the public as a national park in 1949.
Exploring Exotic Plants in the Greenhouse
I started by visiting one of Shinjuku Gyoen’s highlights, the greenhouse. Inside, it felt like a tropical paradise, filled with exotic plants that you don't usually see. The vibrant flowers and massive leaves transported us to another world.
As you enter through the Ōkido Gate, you’ll find a large greenhouse.
Pinecones and spider lilies (Higanbana)?
It was called Ōbenigōkan (Calliandra haematocephala).
The greenhouse is spacious, and tropical plants are thriving beautifully.
The collaboration between nature and the city is captivating!
The towering buildings rising up give a strong sense of the city atmosphere.
The structure reflecting like a symbolic tower of Shinjuku Gyoen is the NTT Docomo Yoyogi Building.
Breakfast Time at the Café
At the café inside the Information Center, NATIONAL PARKS CAFE Under the Tree, you can enjoy a leisurely breakfast while taking in the refreshing morning air.
I had a homemade panini and coffee, and their simple yet delicious flavors perfectly matched the relaxed atmosphere of Shinjuku Gyoen. Watching the greenery outside while time seemed to slow down was incredibly soothing.
This is the imperfect vegetable spice curry. The vegetables are perfectly fine and taste delicious.
We shared the panini and enjoyed it together.
Once again, the NTT Docomo Yoyogi Building makes an appearance. It truly stands as a symbolic building.
The view from the Old Imperial Rest House is also a must-see!
The view from the Old Imperial Rest House is truly remarkable. This Chinese-style building overlooks a spacious pond, offering a breathtaking spot where you can enjoy the lush greenery and the city skyline together.
The sight of towering city buildings rising behind the peaceful nature creates a unique experience that you can only enjoy here.
Don’t miss the artistic Platanus tree-lined avenue!
The Platanus tree-lined avenue in the formal garden is another highlight. The trees are neatly arranged, and their unique patterns feel like a fusion of nature and art.
Among them, I spotted a tree with bark resembling a camouflage pattern, just like a military uniform! It was an impressive camouflage design.
Discovering the History of the Old Guardhouses
The Old Ōkido Gate Guardhouse was built during the Taishō era and has been designated as an Important Cultural Property. It is well-preserved and carries a sense of history that you can truly feel.
Summary
Shinjuku Gyoen is a special place where you can fully enjoy nature, even in the heart of the city. It’s a spot where you can appreciate the contrast between urban life and nature, with unique attractions such as the patterns of the Platanus trees and the views from the Old Imperial Rest House. If you’re visiting Shinjuku, be sure to take a stroll through Shinjuku Gyoen.
The journey continues... Wishing you all a wonderful trip! – TabiJun
Time spent here: 4 hours.
