Meiji Jingu Gaien

Overview

Meiji Jingu Gaien (the Outer Garden of Meiji Shrine) is a park and sports complex famous for its spectacular Icho Namiki — a 300-metre avenue of 146 ginkgo trees that turn brilliant gold in late November, creating one of Tokyo's most iconic autumn scenes.

Highlights

• Ginkgo Avenue: The four rows of ginkgo trees lining the approach to the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery create a golden tunnel that draws tens of thousands of visitors each November.
• Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery: A Renaissance-style building housing 80 murals depicting scenes from Emperor Meiji's life.
• Sports Facilities: Jingu Stadium (baseball), the Prince Chichibu Memorial Rugby Ground, and batting cages create an active, sporty atmosphere.

Visitor Tips

• Ginkgo Peak: The trees typically peak in mid-to-late November. The avenue is most dramatic when the leaves carpet the ground in gold.
• Weekend Festival: During ginkgo season, food stalls and events fill the avenue on weekends.
• Duration: 30–45 minutes.