TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Shiba Park is a historic urban park located in Tokyo's Minato Ward, and is one of Japan's leading public parks, having been developed in the early Meiji period (opened around 1873). Adjacent to Zojoji Temple and Tokyo Tower, it is a popular area where urban scenery and green space blend in harmony. With spacious lawns, pine forests, and walking paths, it is a popular photo spot with seasonal scenery (cherry blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, yellow leaves in autumn, etc.) and Tokyo Tower in the background.
Highlights
- View of Tokyo Tower: A classic spot where you can get a close-up view from Shiba Park. You can enjoy the different views day and night.
- Zojoji Temple Area: A combination of a historic temple and a park. Just strolling around the grounds and the approach to the temple creates a wonderful atmosphere.
- A spacious lawn: A great place for picnics and relaxing breaks. Great for bringing children and taking photos.
- Plants for all seasons: There are plenty of seasonal attractions, such as cherry blossoms and plum blossoms in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, and colorful autumn leaves.
- Sports facilities and playground equipment: The park has spaces that can be used for jogging, light exercise, and children's play areas (some facilities require a fee or reservation).
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Shibakoen Station (Toei Mita Line): Conveniently located near the park. Some locations are only a 1-3 minute walk away.
- Onarimon Station (Toei Mita Line): Located near the south side of the park, about a 3-6 minute walk.
- Daimon Station (Toei Asakusa Line, Toei Oedo Line): Accessible in about 10 minutes on foot. Convenient for exploring the surrounding area.
- Hamamatsucho Station (JR Yamanote Line, Keihin-Tohoku Line, Monorail): Approximately 10-15 minutes on foot. From Hamamatsucho, it is common to walk towards Zojoji Temple and Tokyo Tower.
- Bus: Toei buses and other services run through the area. It is also convenient to use bus routes depending on your destination.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walks and photography: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Visit to Zojoji Temple + stroll around the park: 1-2 hours
- Picnic or relaxing: 2 hours or more
Nearby spots
- Zojoji Temple: A historic temple adjacent to the park. You can stroll around the grounds and worship.
- Tokyo Tower: Located very close to Shiba Park. The observation deck and the surrounding area are popular for their illuminated appearance.
- Hama-rikyu Gardens (accessible by foot or bus): Enjoy the Japanese gardens and tidal pond.
- Shiodome/Shiosite area (walk or one station away): Full of commercial facilities, observation spots, and restaurants.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The area gets crowded on weekends, public holidays, cherry blossom season, Golden Week, and during events around Tokyo Tower. Please be considerate of others when taking photos or having a picnic.
- Manners: There may be no-smoking areas and designated smoking areas within the park. Please take your trash with you or dispose of it in the designated sorting area. Pets must be kept on a leash, and owners are responsible for disposing of their waste.
- Use of the lawn: To protect the grass, some areas may be off-limits or have curing periods set up. Please check notices to see if you are allowed to enter.
- Safety and Barrier-Free: There are some areas with steps and stairs. If you are using a stroller or wheelchair, it is a good idea to check the route in advance.
- Weather/season: In summer, be careful of direct sunlight and heat (we recommend wearing a hat and staying hydrated). After rain, there are muddy and slippery areas, so be careful of your footing.
