Rikugien Garden 六義園

Rikugien Garden was created around 1700 as a strolling garden, at the request of Japan's fifth shogun, Tsunayoshi Tokugawa (1646–1709). The quiet grounds depict 88 scenes from six poems, and offer beautiful views from every angle. Relax in one of the three tea houses with views of the central pond, and forget for a moment that you are in modern Tokyo.

Rikugien is a 10-minute walk from Komagome Station on the JR Yamanote Line and the Tokyo Metro Namboku Line.

The name "Rikugien" refers to the six elements of traditional Japanese poetry. True to its name, the structure and flow of Rikugien Garden allude to scenes from famous waka poems.

Central to the garden's design is a lovely pond surrounded by walking trails that take you to different areas of the garden. Most of the walking trails are fairly flat, and offer people of all ages and physical conditions a place to enjoy Japan's natural beauty.

When you need a break, visit Fukiage Chaya teahouse for some matcha (green tea) and Japanese sweets while overlooking the central pond. Other options include Takimi no Chaya teahouse on the southwestern side of the garden and Tsutsuji Chaya on the northern side.

Rikugien is especially popular during the cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons when the garden is blanketed in seasonal hues. At these times, both locals and foreigners flock to see the colorful transformation and take part in hanami (cherry blossom viewing) and momijigari (fall-leaf viewing).

Most gardens, Rikugien included, close early. During the cherry blossom season and fall foliage season, however, Rikugien Garden extends its hours and holds special illumination events, allowing guests to appreciate the beauty of nature at night. In fact, many consider Rikugien to be one of Tokyo's best spots for viewing maple leaves in autumn.