Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Yoyogi Park (Shibuya Ward, Tokyo) is a vast urban park in the heart of Tokyo, covering an area of approximately 54 hectares. It was originally used as military land and lodgings for occupying forces before and after the war, and was also part of the site of the Athletes' Village for the 1964 Tokyo Olympics. It was later developed into a park and opened in its current form in 1967. It offers a natural environment with spacious lawns where you can relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city, a grove of large zelkova and Somei-Yoshino cherry trees, a pond, and walking paths, and is known for its seasonal scenery and events. Its particular attractions are the cherry blossom viewing in spring, weekend street performances, and various festivals.
Highlights
- Large Lawn Square: Perfect for picnics, sports, and relaxation. On sunny days, picnic sheets are lined up.
- Forest Zone: A walking path like an oasis in the city. You can enjoy the trees of all seasons.
- Event Square and Outdoor Stage: Numerous events will be held, including food festivals, music events, and flea markets.
- Sunday Performance/Rockabilly SquareOn Sundays, you may see cosplayers, rockabilly dance groups, and street performers (locations vary).
- Walking and photo spots:Seasonal scenery such as cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, and autumn leaves are ideal for photography.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- JR Yamanote Line, Harajuku Station: About a 3-minute walk from the Omotesando Exit (close to the entrance on the south side of the park, on the Meiji Jingu side).
- JR Yamanote Line Yoyogi Station: About a 5-minute walk (close to the southwest side of the park).
- Tokyo Metro Meiji-Jingumae (Harajuku) Station (Chiyoda Line/Fukutoshin Line): Approximately 5 minutes walk.
- Tokyo Metro Yoyogi Park Station (Chiyoda Line): Approximately 3-5 minutes walk (close to the north side of the park).
- Yoyogi-Hachiman Station on the Odakyu Line: Approximately 8-10 minutes walk.
It is easily accessible from major stations in the city center, and there are multiple stations available, so you can choose the entrance that best suits your itinerary. Although there are paid parking lots in the area, they can get crowded during weekend events, so we recommend using public transportation.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walk: 30 minutes to 1 hour (around the main spots)
- Leisurely sightseeing and photography: 1-2 hours
- Picnics and events: 2-4 hours (all day depending on the event)
- Combine with sightseeing in the surrounding area: Half a day to a full day (combined with Meiji Shrine, Harajuku, and Omotesando)
Nearby spots
- Meiji Shrine: Within walking distance. You can enjoy a visit to the shrine and a stroll around the large torii gate.
- Takeshita Street (Harajuku) and Omotesando: Convenient for shopping and cafe hopping.
- NHK Hall/NHK Broadcasting Center: Check information on cultural facilities and events.
- Sports facilities near Yoyogi Park (National Yoyogi Stadium, Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, etc.): Be sure to check on days when there are tournaments or concerts.
- Shibuya/Omotesando area: Easy to get around for dining and shopping.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- congestion: The park gets very crowded during the spring cherry blossom viewing season, Golden Week, weekends, and when events are held. The lawn area and the entrance area are particularly crowded, so make sure you allow plenty of time.
- Garbage/Take-out: There are only a limited number of trash cans in the park, so it is good manners to take any trash you produce home with you.
- Barbecues and other open flames: Open fires and barbecues may be prohibited by park rules. Please check the latest rules beforehand.
- Pets: Please observe proper etiquette, such as keeping your dog on a leash. Please use designated areas such as dog runs.
- smoking: There are no-smoking areas and designated smoking areas within the park. Please follow the signs.
- Noise and Performance: The performances on Sundays and other days are entertaining, but they can be loud. Please be considerate of those around you and follow the rules.
- Seasonal measures: In summer, you need to protect yourself from the heat (hats and fluids), in winter, you need to protect yourself from the cold, and in spring, some people need to protect themselves from pollen.
- Precautions during events: When large-scale events are held, admission restrictions, closures of certain areas, and traffic congestion may occur. Please check official information and surrounding area guides.
- Use of drones, etc.: Flying drones is prohibited in many parks. Please check in advance and be mindful of the safety and privacy of those around you.
