Shinjuku Gyoen eBook – Explore Tokyo’s Historic Imperial Garden
It’s done! With this publication, we have completed our “Famous Gardens in Tokyo” eBook series. I am thrilled to finish this project and can now look forward to starting the next one: Secret Gardens in Tokyo. Hopefully, I can complete the second series soon as well.
Shinjuku Gyoen – The Garden Behind Tokyo’s Name
Now, let me tell you a little about Shinjuku Gyoen.
This park has special significance. You may already know Shinjuku as one of Tokyo’s busiest districts, but did you know the name comes from a garden and lodging complex established here during the Edo period?
This is one of Tokyo’s most fascinating aspects. Even as a modern metropolis of skyscrapers and neon lights, traces of its origins remain hidden in plain sight.
A Garden with Imperial Ties
The history of Shinjuku Gyoen begins with the Naitō family, who established their residence here. As their land became too large to manage, they returned part of it to the Shogun but kept a portion until the end of the Edo period. Later, the site passed through several official institutions, including the Ministry of the Imperial Household, before finally coming under the responsibility of the Ministry of the Environment.
Most Edo gardens are managed by the Tokyo Park Association. Only four gardens in Japan—those with strong ties to the Imperial Family, including Shinjuku Gyoen—are managed by the Ministry of the Environment.
Modern Landscape with Edo Roots
Although the garden has a long history, the current design is relatively new. It was completed in 1906 after four years of construction. The traditional Japanese garden, along with the Taiwan Pavilion, was added during the Shōwa period (1926–1989). Despite these modern elements, one section from the original Naitō family garden still survives.
A Garden for Everyone
Shinjuku Gyoen serves many purposes today. Families come to picnic, amateur photographers capture seasonal flowers and birds, plant enthusiasts visit the greenhouse to study rare species, and history lovers explore traces of Edo’s past. Tourists also enjoy it as a peaceful retreat within Tokyo’s bustling centre.
The park is especially famous in autumn for its stunning chrysanthemum displays, which should not be missed.
Get the Shinjuku Gyoen eBook
Our 17-page Shinjuku Gyoen eBook offers detailed explanations and scenic photographs of every highlight. Whether you are planning a trip to Tokyo or want to learn from home, this guide is ideal. Delivered as a PDF for just $4.95.
Shinjuku Gyoen Garden Guide
This eBook explores Shinjuku Gyoen garden in Tokyo—an elegant blend of Japanese, French, and English landscape styles.
Perfect for garden lovers, city explorers, and cultural travelers.
Learn more before your visit—or revisit from home.
Visiting Tokyo? Take your Koishikawa Kōrakuen experience to the next level by booking a guided tour with us!
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With twelve years of professional landscaping experience under her belt, Anika Ogusu is your perfect guide to the world of Japanese gardens. Her love of nature began early, in the woods near her childhood home and the garden of her grandmother’s house. During her teenage years she developed a strong interest in Japanese culture, and after university she decided to combine her love of Japan and gardens into a profession. Anika started her career as chief gardener in charge of the perennial valley at the Botanical Garden in Hamburg, Germany, then moved to Tokyo in pursuit of her dream. For two years she apprenticed under local landscape designers and learned the art of Japanese garden design, construction and maintenance. Now, in partnership with Real Japanese Gardens (www.japanesegardens.jp), her wish is to spread the magic of Japanese gardens to the rest of the world. Her in-depth guide books on gardens throughout Japan are available in eBook format or paperback. In her free time, Anika enjoys exploring her adopted country (especially green moss gardens), and soaking up nature and any details that interest her.
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With twelve years of professional landscaping experience under her belt, Anika Ogusu is your perfect guide to the world of Japanese gardens. Her love of nature began early, in the woods near her childhood home and the garden of her grandmother’s house. During her teenage years she developed a strong interest in Japanese culture, and after university she decided to combine her love of Japan and gardens into a profession. Anika started her career as chief gardener in charge of the perennial valley at the Botanical Garden in Hamburg, Germany, then moved to Tokyo in pursuit of her dream. For two years she apprenticed under local landscape designers and learned the art of Japanese garden design, construction and maintenance. Now, in partnership with Real Japanese Gardens (www.japanesegardens.jp), her wish is to spread the magic of Japanese gardens to the rest of the world. Her in-depth guide books on gardens throughout Japan are available in eBook format or paperback. In her free time, Anika enjoys exploring her adopted country (especially green moss gardens), and soaking up nature and any details that interest her.
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