Japanese Gardens to go

Spending time in a quiet place while reflecting on yourself – if you're looking for a retreat in Tokyo, I recommend visiting Japanese gardens.

Tokyo is a major metropolitan city and economic hub, but it is also home to gardens created during like Edo era, which remain as beautiful spaces for contemplation and relaxation.

Here are some of the beautiful gardens in Tokyo that you have to visit:

Rikugien Gardens

Rikugien located in Bunkyo-ku, Tokyo, is a national important cultural property. It was created in the mid-Edo era as a landscape garden featuring a pond “circuit style(kaiyu-style)”. In spring, the weeping cherry blossoms bloom spectacularly, and in autumn, the garden offers beautiful views of the changing leaves. Walking around the pond and reflecting quietly is a great way to spend time here.

From the highest point in the garden, "Fujishirotoge" you can enjoy panoramic views of the entire garden and experience the beauty of the garden along with a deep sense of Japanese aesthetics.

Also, Rikugien holds seasonal light-up events. The photo on the right shows weeping cherry trees taken during the spring 2025 event. This event has already ended.

Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens

Located near Tokyo Dome, Koishikawa Korakuen is a garden that incorporates Chinese-style design. The garden features rivers, a large pond called "Dai-sensui," and the "Engetsu-kyo," which reflected in the water, appears to form a full moon. There are many other highlights as well, especially the plum grove that comes into full bloom in spring, attracting many travelers who come to take photos.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

On weekends, many families visit Shinjuku Gyoen, where children run around and enjoy the open space. The expansive garden, approximately 3.5 km in circumference, includes formal and landscape-style gardens, cherry blossoms, a greenhouse, and much more. It's a wonderful place to explore in its entirety, and it’s also a perfect spot for a picnic. You can enjoy the beauty of each season and connect with nature.