Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

The Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is a popular attraction among locals and tourists. 

According to Japan Guide, it is very accessible from Shinjuku station, and it features three gardens- the English landscape garden, French garden and Japanese landscape garden. 

As I made my way from Kabukiza Ginza Theater to the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, and I saw this shinto shrine. 

It was too beautiful that I had to take a picture of it. 

The sky was overcast, and I thought it was going to rain, but it didn't. Based on the pictures I saw online, Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden looked stunning during cherry blossom season and autumn. I knew that I was visiting the garden during summer time, when the weather is either hot and humid, or wet and rainy. 

Yes, that's right. The Land of the Rising Sun is buffeted by typhoons during this time of the year. 

Japan looks very aesthetic from any angle.

As beautiful as the garden was, I was worried that it would rain during my trip there. I guess anyone would share my concerns as well. No tourist wants to be drenched in the rain while travelling. 

When I got the Shinjuku Gyoen Park, I lined up to pay the entrance fee. The fee for adults is 500 Yen (~5 USD). The fee for college students, children and seniors is 250 Yen (~3 USD). 

Once I got inside, I was amazed by the large expanse of the garden. There were three trails that led to either the English, Japanese or French Gardens. I decided to visit the Japanese landscape garden. 

Because of the overcast skies which hid the sun, some parts of the trail were dark and I felt like I was hiking in a forest. The beauty of the area was magnified by the subtle colors of foliage and leaves. 

Although the sight wasn't as "showy" as the pictures I found online, I found the sight to be quite relaxing and refreshing. I was a bit scared to walk through the darker parts of the trail, but I made sure I walked with a group of people. 

After I reached the entrance of the Japanese landscape garden, I was overwhelmed by the vast amounts of greenery, calmness in the air and the picturesque scenery. The entire place was serene and relaxing. I felt one with nature as I strolled through this garden. This is definitely the place to think about deep thoughts, and reflect about life.

Vibrant greens welcome park goers into the fore. 

While walking around the park, one could see the garden against the backdrop of buildings and industrialized life. But even so, the garden stands as a national treasure of Japan where locals can take a break from the hectic life of the city. 

My photo does not give justice to the beauty and magnificence of the entire place. 

Visiting the garden while sun was overcast is quite a blessing as well. Taking pictures was much easier, and I didn't need to worry about getting sunburned immediately. 

As I walked to the farther parts of the garden, I saw some interesting sights, One of them reminds me of a Chinese painting, perhaps because of the oriental-looking lantern. 

The colors of nature are very vibrant and alive, even when they are not emphasized by the sun. 

I spent about an hour strolling around, and taking in all the wonderful sights of the garden. Honestly, I wish I had more time to explore the rest of the Garden, but it was getting late and my feet were getting tired from constant walking. 

Before I left, I took a shot of this view. It does look like a scene from a movie. 

Finding peace in nature.

I recommend this to anyone who wants to take a break from the busy and hectic life of Tokyo. I spent one hour in this place, and after my visit, I felt reinvigorated, refreshed and renewed.

If you ever feel stressed or anxious, consider taking a walk in a garden or park, or try engaging in activities that bring you closer to nature. Doing so can make you see things in a different, and altogether, positive light. 

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