Autumn-leaf viewing is a popular autumn activity in Japan but not everyone knows that it can be enjoyed even at night. Some parks and gardens illuminate the trees after dark and temporarily extend their opening hours for viewing. With the light-ups, tinted leaves glow in shades that are different from when they are under the sun. It’s pretty magical.

Experience a whole new view of the autumn leaves at night.

Here are the three gardens in Tokyo that we highly recommend as the spots to see the autumn leaf light-ups. Wear some warm clothes and enjoy the autumn night!

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Rikugien (六義園)

Reflection on pond

A historical Japanese garden from Edo period (1603-1868). It is known as one of the best spots for autumn-leaf viewing in Tokyo. From mid November until the beginning of December, the park is open until 9pm for lightup viewing.

There are tea houses inside the park where you can take a rest and enjoy tea and Japanese confectionery. They also do a free English guided tour on the 1st and 3rd Sunday every month from 11am and 2pm.

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Admission
Up to 64 year-old: 300 yen
65 year-old and over: 150 yen

Location
Komagome Sta. on JR Yamanote Line and Tokyo Metro Nanboku Line. (7 min walk)
Sengaku Sta. on Toei Mita Line. (10 min walk)

Website
Rikugien

 

Otaguro Park (大田黒公園)

Located in a quiet residential district in Ogikubo, this beautiful and quiet garden was originally the estate of a music composer and critic, Motoo Otaguro. A ginko tree promenade from the gade leades to a Japanese garden with a large pond and a small tea house. The reflections of the illuminated trees on the pond and streams are amazing. Taking photos is allowed but the use of tripod is prohibited in the park.

Admission
Free

Location
Ogikubo Sta. on Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line, Tozai Line, and JR Chuo Line. (10-min walk)

Website
Otaguro Park (Japanese)

Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo (ホテル椿山荘東京)

The garden of a five-star Hotel, Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo, is beautifully lit during the autumn leaves season. The garden is open until 11:30 pm and is less crowded later in the evening.

Admission
Free

Location
Edogawabashi Sta. on Yurakucho line, Exit 1A .(10-min walk)
Mejiro Sta. on Yamanote line. Take Toei Bus No. 61 bus and get off at the “Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo Mae.”

Website
Hotel Chinzanso Tokyo (Multilingual)

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