Overview
The parks and gardens of Shibuya City Ward are the perfect complement to the effervescent youth culture that calls the city home. From the majestic grounds of the Imperial dynasty to well-loved local spaces, there are plenty of places to relax and unwind. Here is an introduction to some of the parks and gardens of Shibuya and how to reach them.
Meiji Jingu Gyoen Garden
One of Tokyo' major destinations, the sprawling grounds of the famous Meiji Jingu shrine are also home to a traditional Japanese garden. Meiji Jingu Gyoen Garden comes complete with teahouse, carp-filled ponds, waking trails and the famous Kiyomasa's Well, whose waters were once used for the tea ceremony.
An 8-minute walk from Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line.
Nabeshima Shoto Park
With its picturesque pond complete with watermill, you'd be forgiven for thinking that you weren't surrounded by the home of Japan's famous youth culture. But Nabeshima Shoto Park offers a hidden grove of peace and quiet, and for the younger children, the play equipment is a nice draw for parents looking for some peace and quiet.
A 5-minute walk from Shinsen Station on the Keio Inokashira Line.
SNI Harajuku Grove of Life
A forest grove managed by the Seicho no Ie group, SNI Harajuku Grove of Life is an attempt to recreate the feeling of the area's natural world before its modern urbanisation. With its well maintained garden grounds, walking trail and chic, yet simple, rest areas, this little garden is a veritable oasis in one of the busiest cities in the world.
A 4-minute walk from Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line.
Yoyogi Koen
One of Tokyo's premier destinations for both locals and visitors, Yoyogi Koen is filled to the brim with space. With ponds, observation decks, gardens and public events, the park is a hub of activity. And even with all of this activity, the park is still large enough to be able to be able to relax and get away from the hustle and bustle of everything around it.
A 5-minute walk from Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line.
