Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is the most beautiful urban park in Tokyo, a 58-hectare oasis in the heart of the Shinjuku district where three garden styles coexist: the traditional Japanese with ponds and pavilions, the formal French with symmetrical flower beds and the English landscape with extensive lawns. With more than 20.000 trees —including 1.500 cherry trees of twelve different varieties— it is the most valued place in Tokyo for hanami during the spring blossom, although alcohol is prohibited within the grounds. Admission costs 500 ¥ for adults (250 ¥ for university students and seniors). The usual hours are 9:00 to 16:30, extended until 18:00 in sakura season and until 19:00 in summer. It closes on Mondays except in special seasons. It is accessed in five minutes from Shinjuku-Gyoenmae station (Marunouchi line) or in ten from Shinjuku. Bring a blanket and some food to enjoy a quiet picnic.