Enjoy Fall Colors in Tokyo at Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

It's the perfect time to enjoy the fall leaves in Tokyo, where the prime season typically begins in mid-November and ends in early to mid-December.

Often mentioned as one of the most beautiful fall destinations in Tokyo, Shinjuku Gyoen National Gardens is definitely a favorite spot to enjoy the colors of the seasons for both Tokyo residents and tourists alike. Like a smaller version of Central Park, it stretches across 144 acres over a circumference of 2.17 miles, and combines three different styles, a Formal Garden, a Landscape Garden and a Japanese Traditional Garden.

Considered one of the most important gardens dating from the Meiji Era, it was completed in 1906 as an imperial garden, re-designated as a national garden after the Pacific War and then opened to the public.

The Japanese Traditional Garden has cherry blossoms in spring and beautiful yellow and red colors in fall. You can enjoy the beautiful stone path arrangements, the pond with ducks and turtles, and other features typical of a Japanese garden.

The park is well organized and signs are posted regularly throughout so you can find your way around.

There are plenty of open spaces to picnic, play or simply enjoy the beautiful scenery.

You can also have a light meal or hot beverage at the tea house, while enjoying the beautiful vista of the garden and Shinjuku city in the background.