Sakura 2016: Shinjuku Gyoen

Visit Date: 03/30/2016 (Best Time: early to mid April)

Shinjuku Gyoen (新宿御苑) being located in central Tokyo, just about 1.5 kilometers or a short 20 minutes walk from Shinjuku Station, is one of the most popular parks in Tokyo.

The park has more than 1,500 cherry trees of more than 12 varieties which starts blooming from late March to late April or sometimes even until early May. With its long cherry blossom season, the park is also indeed one of Tokyo’s favorite and best cherry blossom spot in Japan.

Shinjuku_Gyoen_01 The blooming sakura trees adds colors to the various trees around the pond.

Early flowering cherry trees were in full bloom where some have even started to lose their petals but are still nice to see. A lot of groups were enjoying the beautiful weather picnicking at the large fields and under the sakura trees.

Shinjuku_Gyoen_02 The park is large enough to accommodate everyone.

Shinjuku_Gyoen_03 The beautiful blooming cherry trees provide lots of picture-taking opportunities.

Shinjuku_Gyoen_04 Gorgeous paintings on the blossoming cherry trees.

Shinjuku_Gyoen_05 Different cherry trees near the Sendagaya gate were in full bloom and creates beautiful hues.

Shinjuku_Gyoen_06 Visitors cannot help but stop and admire the beauty of the blossoming trees.

Shinjuku_Gyoen_07 The stunning florets reflecting on water.

Shinjuku_Gyoen_08 Most of the common cherry blossoms were at this state.

Shinjuku_Gyoen_09 The blooming trees indeed add color to a beautiful landscape.


Useful Info:
Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden Service Center
Address: 11 Naito-cho, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo 〒160-0014
Inquiries:  03-3350-0151
Hours: 9:00 – 16:00 (gates close at 16:30)
Admission Fee: ¥ 200
* Elementary and junior high school student is ¥50.
* Disabled visitors and his/her companion may enter free of charge (ID must be presented).
* Group discount applies to a party of 30 persons or more.

Access:
Shinjuku Gate
▸ Shinjuku Station South Exit (10 mins walk)
▸ Shinjuku-Gyoenmae Station Exit 1 (5 mins walk)
▸ Shinjuku-Sanchome Station Exit E5 (5 mins walk)
Sendagaya Gate
▸ JR Sendagaya Station (5 mins walk)
▸ Kokuritsu-Kyogijo Station Exit 5 (5 mins walk)