Shinjuku Gyoen (新宿御苑) is one of the largest and most popular parks in Tokyo, located just a short walk from Shinjuku Station. Its wide lawns, winding paths, and peaceful atmosphere offer a relaxing escape from the busy city around it. In spring, it becomes one of the best places in Tokyo to enjoy cherry blossoms (sakura). The park was almost completely destroyed during World War II, but was rebuilt and reopened in 1949 as a public park.

Shinjuku Gyoen is made up of three distinct garden styles. The oldest is a traditional Japanese landscape garden, featuring large ponds and carefully maintained trees and shrubs. The others include a French formal garden and an English landscape garden with open lawns surrounded by cherry trees. With a wide variety of cherry tree species, the park offers an extended sakura season throughout March and April. In autumn, it’s also a great spot for foliage (koyo), typically from mid-November to mid-December.