Urban Oasis! Shinjuku Parks Where You Can Feel the Nature

When you think of Shinjuku, towering skyscrapers probably come to mind. But in fact, the area is dotted with lush parks that offer a break from the city’s hustle and bustle. From cherry blossoms in spring and vivid autumn leaves to relaxing lawns and gentle hilltop views, Shinjuku has so much to offer.
Here are 6 recommended parks in Shinjuku where you can enjoy nature’s calming embrace. Don’t forget to check the location map at the end of the page!

1. Shinjuku Chuo Park｜A soothing riverside retreat near the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building

Located right next to the Tokyo Metropolitan Government Building, Shinjuku Chuo Park is a green oasis that makes you forget the city’s rush. Highlights include the man-made “Shinjuku Niagara Falls” and the “Chibikko Hiroba” (Little Kids’ Plaza), which brings a touch of the wild to the playground.

Enjoy cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in summer, and vibrant foliage in autumn—all just steps from Shinjuku’s skyscrapers. On weekdays, it’s a calm spot for office workers; on weekends, it’s a family-friendly hub for all generations.

◆Read more here!
Shinjuku Chuo Park – An Urban Sanctuary in the Skyscraper District

Address: 2-11-5 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku-ku Open: 24 hours (Park office: 9:00–17:00, year-round) Access: 13 min walk from JR/Odakyu/Keio Line “Shinjuku” Station / 5 min walk from Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line “Nishi-Shinjuku” Station / 1 min walk from Toei Oedo Line “Tochomae” Station

2. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden｜A serene escape from the urban rush

This spacious garden blends three styles: Japanese, English landscape, and French formal. Notable highlights include the Kyu Goryotei Pavilion, built in a Chinese architectural style to commemorate Emperor Showa’s wedding, and a large greenhouse brimming with diverse plants.

Cherry blossoms in spring, autumn foliage, rose gardens, and the impressive plane tree avenue make this a beautiful year-round destination. Whether you’re looking for peaceful nature, photography spots, or a special time in the city, this is the place to go.

◆Discover more about Shinjuku Gyoen!
Shinjuku Gyoen: Urban Oasis with Cherry Blossoms, Autumn Leaves, and More

Address: 11 Naito-cho, Shinjuku-ku Open: ・Oct 1 – Mar 14: 9:00–16:00 (last entry 16:00, close 16:30) ・Mar 15 – Jun 30, Aug 21 – Sep 30: 9:00–17:30 (last entry 18:00) ・Jul 1 – Aug 20: 9:00–18:30 (last entry 19:00) Closed Mondays (open if Monday is a holiday, then closed the next weekday) and Dec 29 – Jan 3 Access: 10 min walk from JR “Shinjuku” Station South Exit / 5 min walk from Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line “Shinjuku Gyoenmae” Station Exit 1 / 5 min walk from Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line “Shinjuku Sanchome” Station Exit E5 / 5 min walk from Toei Shinjuku Line “Shinjuku Sanchome” Station Exits C1, C5

3. Toyama Park｜Natural beauty and history atop Tokyo’s highest peak

Toyama Park spans the Hakoneyama and Okubo areas and is known for Hakoneyama, the highest natural hill within the Yamanote Line. With lawns, jogging paths, and sports facilities, there’s plenty of space to relax or stay active.

Enjoy seasonal flowers and birdsong while learning about the area’s rich history. It’s great for families, runners, and anyone who wants a slice of nature and heritage in one spot.

Address: Toyama 1–3, Okubo 3, Shinjuku-ku Open: Always open (no lighting at night) Access: 6 min walk from Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line “Nishi-Waseda” Station / 15 min walk from JR “Shin-Okubo” Station / 10 min walk from Tokyo Metro Tozai Line “Takadanobaba” Station

4. Ochiai Chuo Park｜A quiet neighborhood park with space for everyone

Ochiai Chuo Park has a baseball field, tennis courts, and a dog run, making it a beloved spot for locals. Beautiful zelkova and cherry trees line the paths, and a small stream lets kids cool off in summer.

The spacious lawn is perfect for picnics. Whether you want to play sports, relax with your dog, or let the kids run free, this park has it all.

Address: 1-2 Kamiochiai, Shinjuku-ku Open: 24 hours (fields/courts open 6:00–21:00 or 22:00 depending on season) Access: 7 min walk from Seibu Shinjuku Line “Shimo-Ochiai” Station

5. Kansenen Park｜A peaceful Japanese garden oasis in the city

Kansenen Park is a traditional Japanese strolling garden built on the site of an Edo-period feudal lord’s residence. Its name comes from the natural spring “Kansen,” which still bubbles quietly today.

This intimate garden is especially beautiful in spring and autumn, with azaleas and hydrangeas adding color. It’s a wonderful spot for quiet reflection or a leisurely historical stroll.

Address: 3-5 Nishi-Waseda, Shinjuku-ku Open: Mar–Oct 7:00–19:00 / Nov–Feb 7:00–17:00 Access: 1 min walk from Toden Arakawa Line “Omokagebashi” Station / 7 min walk from Tokyo Metro Tozai Line “Waseda” Station

6. Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue（明治神宮外苑 いちょう並木）

Meiji Jingu Gaien spans a vast area across Shinjuku’s Kasumigaoka-cho and Minato’s Kita-Aoyama. On the Shinjuku side, you’ll find the National Stadium, Meiji Park, Meiji Jingu Baseball Stadium, and part of the famous Ginkgo Avenue.

The golden ginkgo trees in autumn are truly stunning. Beyond the tree-lined avenue, this spacious area also features a variety of facilities: the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery, lush green gardens and forests, and even a golf practice range. It’s a place where sports, culture, and leisure come together beautifully.

Though in the heart of Tokyo, the harmonious balance of seasonal nature and urban functionality makes this spot especially charming. Whether you’re after a peaceful walk, some exercise, or an inspiring cultural moment, this place has it all.

◆Curious about the famous beer garden?
Meiji Jingu Gaien “Forest Beer Garden” 2025: Craft Beer & BBQ from April 15–Sep 23

Address: Around Kita-Aoyama 2-chome, Minato-ku Open: Ginkgo Avenue open 24 hours; other facilities vary Access: JR Chuo/Sobu Line “Sendagaya” or “Shinanomachi” Station, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line “Gaiemmae” or “Aoyama-itchome” Station, Tokyo Metro Hanzomon Line “Aoyama-itchome” Station, Toei Oedo Line “Kokuritsu-kyogijo” or “Aoyama-itchome” Station

 
 That wraps up our introduction to six recommended parks within Shinjuku Ward.

Right next door in Shibuya, Yoyogi Park is another beloved green space where you can experience Tokyo’s natural side. Be sure to check out our feature on Yoyogi Park if you’re curious!

■Discover the Wonders of Yoyogi Park: Nature, History, and Culture – with Some Surprises!

Take a break and treat yourself to the luxury of nature right in the heart of the city. Enjoy your stroll through Shinjuku’s parks!

Nearby MAP

Please note: Opening hours and admission fees may change, so we recommend checking the latest information directly with each facility.

— YOKOSO Shinjuku Editorial Team