Generally, when people talk about Japanese gardens, they immediately think about Kyoto and its temples and shrines. Tokyo has also its fair share of beautiful gardens despite being a megapolis. Tourists that are able to find such gardens within the confines of the city are always delighted to discover one, because they are never disappointed when visiting it. The capital began building gardens within its own walls. Most of them were erected by the Tokugawa family and the feudal lords during the Edo Period as a recreational and leisure place that surrounds their residences.
Rikugien Garden – This particular garden was erected by the fifth shogun of the Tokugawa era named Tsunayoshi, in his own residence. It is a very unique kind of garden because it perfectly captures the waka poem's literary elements. The place is well lit during the autumn season at night as it brings out more beauty from the gardens.
Hamarikyu Gardens – Nicely tucked within the skyscapers of Tokyo, this was initially created by the Tokugawa family as their own hunting ground for the hawks. The garden was completed during the time of Ienari Tokugawa, in which he was the eleventh shogun of the Tokugawa era. This is considered to be one of the grandest gardens that is built by an aristocrat. When seasons change, expect this garden's look to change as well, such as flowers fading and the blooming of the new ones.
Kiyosumi Garden – Another garden built by a famous merchant that lived during the Edo period in which it was made to surround his own mansion. When the Great Kanto Earthquake happened, half of the grounds of this garden was used to accommodate the evacuees. This spot is a popular destination for sakura viewing during spring season because of the numerous sakura trees planted within the area.
What to do in Tokyo?
Japan is one of the best tourist destinations in the world and here some things you can do specifically in Tokyo. Cherry blossoms beautifies the surrounding of Tokyo, the best time you can visit to witness the natural beauty is between the March to April, perhaps you can have picnic at one of the parks while eating sushi and other Japanese foods. Another thing you can so in Tokyo is to try eating in a Street, there are few street food dinners you can try such as Yasukini Shrine, and best time to dine is during cherry blossom month. You will surely blown away with beauty of this amazing tree. If it is your first time in this place, booking a pocket wifi in Japan would be best recommended to lead you to the streets in Tokyo by just accessing google map, you will have less hassle in finding the place. Above all be sure you have enough memory space for you photos cause you’ll surely don’t want to miss to capture the of Tokyo!
Travel tip: Don’t forget to bring your own English-Japanese dictionary to communicate with them.