Shinjuku Gyoen Cherry Blossoms
Shinjuku Gyoen Management Office: The Best Hanami Spot in Tokyo
The cherry blossom season in Tokyo is a sight to behold, with soft pink petals carpeting the city in April. Throughout Tokyo, there are numerous hanami sites where people can gather to enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms. One of the most popular spots in the city is Shinjuku Gyoen, managed by the Shinjuku Gyoen Management Office. This expansive garden is known for being one of the best places in Tokyo to experience hanami and soak up the vibrant spring atmosphere.
Shinjuku Gyoen offers a variety of attractions and experiences for visitors during the cherry blossom season. One of the highlights is seeing the winter cherry blossoms in February. While most cherry blossoms bloom in the spring, Shinjuku Gyoen is home to the Kanzakura, or winter cherry, which blooms earlier than other varieties. This unique feature allows visitors to extend the hanami season and enjoy the beauty of cherry blossoms for a longer period of time.
Another enjoyable activity at Shinjuku Gyoen is having a picnic in the peaceful garden. The park provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and enjoying a meal surrounded by the beauty of nature. With the carpet of cherry blossom petals covering the ground, the experience becomes even more magical and picturesque.
As spring progresses, the new leaves start to emerge, creating a stunning contrast with the carpet of cherry blossom petals. This spectacle can be witnessed throughout the garden, with the vibrant green leaves and delicate pink petals creating a visual feast for the eyes. The Shinjuku Gyoen Management Office ensures that the garden is properly maintained, allowing visitors to fully appreciate the beauty of nature.
When it comes to cherry blossoms, diversity is the secret at Shinjuku Gyoen. The garden boasts around 68 varieties of trees, ensuring that the blooming season seems to last for ages. Each variety has its own unique charm, from the Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms that bloom from late March to early April, to the Ichiyo and Kanzan varieties that bloom in mid-April. Even after the peak bloom period, there are still cherry blossoms to be enjoyed, such as the Baigoji Juzukakezakura, which blossom in late April.
One of the advantages of visiting Shinjuku Gyoen for hanami is the more relaxing experience compared to other parks in the city. Smoking and alcohol are banned in the park, creating a peaceful and family-friendly environment. Additionally, the park charges a small entrance fee, which helps to limit the number of visitors and ensure a more enjoyable and less crowded experience. Visitors can truly immerse themselves in the beauty of the cherry blossoms and feel a sense of serenity and tranquility.
Timing is key when it comes to hanami at Shinjuku Gyoen. While any time during the long blooming season is lovely, mid-April is considered the best time to visit. This is when the Somei Yoshino trees are in full bloom, and the ground is covered with a carpet of pink petals. The contrast between the green leaves and the pink petals creates a breathtaking scene that is worth witnessing. However, it’s important to note that certain activities are prohibited in the garden, such as drinking alcohol, using sports equipment, and practicing musical instruments. Visitors are advised to check the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden’s official website before visiting to ensure that the garden is open.
In conclusion, Shinjuku Gyoen managed by the Shinjuku Gyoen Management Office is undeniably one of the best hanami spots in Tokyo. With its diverse range of cherry blossom varieties, peaceful atmosphere, and well-maintained garden, it offers an unforgettable hanami experience. Whether it’s enjoying a picnic surrounded by cherry blossoms, witnessing the emergence of new leaves, or simply taking in the beauty of nature, Shinjuku Gyoen is a must-visit destination during the cherry blossom season in Tokyo.
Address And Maps Location:
11 Naito-machi, Shinjuku-ku, Tokyo-to
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