Shinjuku Gyoen enters its autumn foliage season in November, with peak colors from mid-November through early December. This guide covers 4 top viewing spots in the garden, best times to visit, and photography tips.
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Shinjuku Gyoen in November enters its most beautiful season of the year.
From mid-November to early December is the best time to view autumn foliage. Within the 58-hectare gardens, you can see a variety of colors from maples, ginkgos, and cherry trees—from green to yellow to red.
4 Autumn Foliage Hotspots
01 | Japanese Garden | Maple Leaves Reflected in the Pond
At the heart of the garden. **The pond beside the former Goryōtei pavilion** reflects maple leaves on its surface, creating the most beloved composition for photographers.
Before 10:00 AM, the light is at its best and there are fewer tourists.
02｜French Garden + Ginkgo Tree-lined Avenue｜Yellow Transformation Boulevard
200 meters to the right after entering from the Shinjuku Gate, you'll find a ginkgo tree-lined avenue. **A stunning 100-meter stretch of golden foliage** is an Instagram must-capture spot.
Late November reaches its peak, and after fallen leaves carpet the ground, the scenery becomes even more beautiful.
03｜English Landscape Garden｜Spacious Lawn
Open lawn + surrounding maple trees. **Perfect for picnicking + leisurely enjoying autumn foliage**, with fewer crowds than the Japanese garden.
Under the midday light, the lawn becomes bright, with striking contrast between the red leaves and green grass.
04｜Large Greenhouse｜Another Highlight Beyond Autumn Leaves
If you happen to encounter rainy weather, the tropical plants and orchids in the large greenhouse make for an excellent alternative.
The greenhouse is open 9:30-16:00 in winter, and admission is included in the Gyoen entrance fee.
The key to autumn foliage at Shinjuku Gyoen is **timing + light**. Late November + before 10:00 AM is the golden combination.
A 12-minute walk from IGO HOTEL to Gyoen Shinjuku Gate.
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