Tokyo-nature-spots

Discovering Tokyo’s Hidden Nature Gems

While Tokyo is known for its bustling streets and urban landscapes, there are many serene nature spots to explore within the city. From tranquil gardens to majestic mountains, here are some of the best nature spots in Tokyo:

1. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

  • Location: 11 Naitomachi, Shinjuku-ku
  • Best time to visit: Spring (cherry blossoms) and autumn (fall foliage)
  • Admission fee: ¥500

This beautiful park offers a tranquil escape from the city’s chaos. With over 20,000 trees, including cherry blossom, plum, and maple, it’s a nature lover’s paradise.

2. Meiji Shrine Outer Garden

  • Location: 1-1 Yoyogi Kamizonocho, Shibuya-ku
  • Best time to visit: Year-round
  • Admission fee: Free

Dedicated to the deified spirits of Emperor Meiji and his wife, Empress Shoken, this shrine is surrounded by a peaceful forest. Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

3. Imperial Palace East Garden

  • Location: 1-1 Chiyoda, Chiyoda-ku
  • Best time to visit: Year-round
  • Admission fee: Free

This traditional Japanese garden is located on the east side of the Imperial Palace and offers a peaceful retreat from the city. Stroll through the gardens and enjoy the beautiful flowers and trees.

4. Mount Takao

  • Location: Hachioji, Tokyo (approximately 1 hour from Shinjuku Station)
  • Best time to visit: Year-round
  • Admission fee: Free

For a more adventurous nature experience, head to Mount Takao, which offers hiking trails with stunning views of the city. Visit the nearby Takaosan Yakuoin Temple for a peaceful atmosphere.

5. Koishikawa Korakuen

  • Location: 1-6-2 Iidabashi, Chiyoda-ku
  • Best time to visit: Year-round
  • Admission fee: ¥300

This beautiful Edo-period garden features ponds, waterfalls, and walking paths. It’s a serene oasis in the heart of the city.

6. Hamarikyu Gardens

  • Location: 1-1 Hamarikyuteien, Chuo-ku
  • Best time to visit: Year-round
  • Admission fee: ¥300

This former duck hunting ground for the Imperial family is now a peaceful garden with beautiful flowers and trees. Take a stroll along the seawater pond and enjoy the tranquil atmosphere.

7. Institute for Nature Study

  • Location: 5-21-5 Shirokanedai, Minato-ku
  • Best time to visit: Year-round
  • Admission fee: ¥500

This beautiful garden is dedicated to nature education and features a variety of plants and trees. Take a peaceful stroll through the gardens and enjoy the serene atmosphere.

8. Yoyogi Park

  • Location: 2-1 Yoyogikamizonocho, Shibuya-ku
  • Best time to visit: Year-round
  • Admission fee: Free

This popular park is famous for its cherry blossom viewing in spring and offers a peaceful escape from the city. Take a stroll through the gardens and enjoy the beautiful flowers and trees.

9. Kinuta Park

  • Location: 1-1 Kinutakoen, Setagaya-ku
  • Best time to visit: Year-round
  • Admission fee: Free

This peaceful park features beautiful gardens, walking paths, and a stunning view of the city from its observation deck.

10. Odaiba Seaside Park

  • Location: 1-5 Daiba, Minato-ku
  • Best time to visit: Year-round
  • Admission fee: Free

This beautiful seaside park offers stunning views of Tokyo Bay and features walking paths, gardens, and a beach area.

With these nature spots in mind, you can now experience the best of both worlds – the urban excitement of Tokyo and the serene beauty of nature.