The beauty of the four seasons: Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden’s natural poetry and urban charm

#TokyoItinerary
Day 1:
On my first day in Tokyo, I chose to start with nature and tranquility and came to the picturesque Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. This vast garden in the bustling Shinjuku area is an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of the city. When you enter the park, you will see neatly trimmed lawns and trees. Taking a walk there is like traveling through the four seasons. In the Japanese Garden, I stopped to admire the traditional pond and stone bridge. The shadows of the trees were reflected on the water, like a vivid painting. The "French Geometric Garden" and "English Landscape Garden" in the park also have their own characteristics, making people linger. Especially during the cherry blossom season, the entire garden is covered in pink, as if you are in a dreamland. In the afternoon, I took a break in the teahouse in the garden, ordered a cup of matcha and Japanese confectionery, and quietly felt the peace of the garden and the rhythm of nature. After leaving Shinjuku Gyoen, I walked to the commercial center of Shinjuku District and explored the bustling streets with tall buildings. Especially in the alleys of Shinjuku Golden Gai, the unique bars and nostalgic atmosphere made me feel like I had traveled to another side of Tokyo. In the evening, I enjoyed authentic yakitori and beer at an izakaya in Shinjuku, which brought a satisfying end to the day.
the next day:
I started the day by exploring Tokyo's culture. Early in the morning, I came to Meiji Jingu Shrine, strolled along the tree-lined avenue, and enjoyed the rare quiet time. Next, I headed to Yoyogi Park, a vast urban green space that serves as a place for citizens to relax and exude a relaxing atmosphere. For lunch, I chose a trendy restaurant on Omotesando and tasted creative cuisine that combined Tokyo and Western styles. In the afternoon, I went to Takeshita Street in Harajuku. The colorful trendy shops and street art attracted countless tourists, making people feel the youthful vitality of Tokyo.

Post by 栗栗子 | Mar 15, 2025