The Top 7 Japanese Gardens You Must Visit in Tokyo

Japan is probably busiest during the spring season—and for good reasons! During this time, people are starting to enjoy the beautiful weather after months of staying indoors due to the cold winter season.

Tourists also flock to the country to witness the most beautiful landscapes and Japanese-style gardens, including the blossoming of the famous cherry blossoms. And rightfully so, because even if you've visited the country several times already, the vibrant colours of spring always give the most charming and peaceful experience.

And do you know what else is BIG during the cherry blossom season in Japan? The much-awaited Golden Week! This celebration can get absolutely chockers because of the back-to-back holidays. So plan ahead by checking out our Japan Golden Week guide:

If you’ve been wanting to visit Japan, especially during the spring season, we’ve listed the seven most beautiful Japanese gardens you can visit for a more colourful trip.

There are three most famous gardens, which are aptly called the Three Great Gardens of Japan, namely Kenrokuen, Korakuen, and Kairakuen. You can expect to find unique beauty in these three Japan gardens because each garden is known for its distinct style.

Kenrokuen Garden, for one, is one of the best strolling gardens to visit during winter because of how remarkable the snow-capped cone trees look, and Korakuen is known for the Marsh Pond, flowers, and trees planted everywhere, which is also a sight to see during the autumn season.

Meanwhile, Kirakuen Garden is the place to be during the spring season because you can immediately spot the dreamy colours of plum blossoms.

But, aside from these three, you’ll find that Japan, including the capital city of Tokyo, is home to a lot more gardens—from a rock garden to a tea garden.

Right at the centre of Tokyo lies the gorgeous Hamarikyu Garden. Sure, you’ll find trees and flowers everywhere, but what exactly can you expect here? Well, Hamarikyu Garden has a large pond with two islands. Plus, if you visit during the spring season, you’ll find beautiful peonies and canola blossoms in bloom!

If you find yourself in Shinjuku Station, don’t miss the opportunity to visit one of the most famous Tokyo gardens, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden. Japanese gardening is truly remarkable because this garden has a lot of open areas and paths, so you can freely explore and take in all of its beauty.

But the main highlight? The cherry blossoms come in the springtime. Walking under the cherry blossoms is like a fairy tale, and trust us; it’s the kind of beauty that sticks with you. Other features you’ll find here are a French garden, an English landscape garden, and a greenhouse.

You’ll defo have a delightful experience when you visit one of Japan's beautiful gardens, Koishikawa Korakuen. Why? This garden is filled with a lot of history, as it is one of Tokyo’s oldest, yet it still packs a lot of charm.

In this traditional Japanese garden, you’ll find three gorgeous ponds, ginkgo trees, and cherry trees, which you probably already know are famous for their stunning blossoms. 

One of the best things about this destination? Koishikawa Korakuen isn’t too hard to find as it is right next to Tokyo Dome. So, if you’re looking for a serene yet historical place to add to your itinerary, Koishikawa Korakuen is it!

If you’re looking for the perfect backdrop for your photos or if you simply want a nice and peaceful place to relax, head to Kiyosumi Garden. From the moment you enter, you won't only notice the beautiful landscape but also the stunning collection of valuable stones on the ground, which adds to the garden's charm. You'll also notice stepping stone paths, also known as isowatari, near the crystal-clear pond. Linger for a bit on one of these stones, and you might also catch a glimpse of the fish and turtles!

There’s no shortage of stunning scenes in Japan, including Rikugien Garden—a stunning landscape garden in the country. You can visit the Tokyo flower garden whenever you want to, but for the best views, explore during the spring season to witness the scenic weeping cherry trees. It’s literally like a painting come to life!

Aside from the colourful flowering trees, this garden stands out because of the central pond surrounded by man-made hills. There are also several tea houses for when you want to chill, have something to drink, and just elevate the whole experience.

If you're also looking for views of the cherry blossoms a little bit outside of Tokyo, you can Kairakuen Garden, one of Japan's greatest.

You’d expect to find lush forests and a waterfall in the middle of nature. But in Tokyo, there’s a hidden gem that you’ll want to visit whenever you have the chance—Tonogayato Garden. Here at the garden in Tokyo, you’ll find a gorgeous bamboo forest, a spacious lawn, a quaint tea house, and a waterfall leading to a natural spring. It’s definitely a breath of fresh air you never knew you needed in the heart of the city!

Tokyo National Museum is one of Japan's famous attractions, and if you happen to explore this gem during springtime, you better swing by the museum garden! It's only open a few times during the year, including the spring season, so you know that it'll be worth it just from the sight of the impressive cherry blossoms.

There are also other attractions within the garden, including the historical tea houses. One of which, Tengōan, was created by renowned Japanese tea expert Kobori Enshū.

Consider exploring other places outside of Tokyo to get the most out of your trip. Wanna take your Japan adventure to the next level? Read this handy dandy Klook guide on which day trips you can take from Tokyo:

Japan, specifically Tokyo, isn’t just home to exciting activities and delicious treats. From a rock garden to small Japanese gardens and traditional Japanese gardens, you’re sure to find stunning Tokyo spring gardens in the middle of the city, offering the perfect place to unwind!

Are you also wondering what there might be aside from sprawling, eye-catching gardens? See what else is in store in Tokyo with this 5D4N itinerary: