First Impressions

After the high energy of nearby Shibuya and Harajuku, stepping into Yoyogi Park felt like a deep exhale. Wide, green lawns. Tall, whispering trees. People dancing, playing music, or just lying in the grass with nowhere to be. It felt like Tokyo’s collective living room—laid-back, creative, and full of personality.

It’s the kind of place where you can wander aimlessly and still leave feeling refreshed.

Getting There

I took the JR Yamanote Line to Harajuku Station—the entrance to the park is just a short walk from there. You can also access it from Meiji-Jingumae Station on the Chiyoda or Fukutoshin lines.

Tip: Go on a Sunday if you want to catch live music, street performers, or groups rehearsing dance routines. Go on a weekday if you’re after peace and quiet.

My Experience

I walked under the leafy canopy and let the city noise melt away. There were locals having picnics, couples walking dogs, and even a group doing yoga to ambient music. I found a shady spot under a tree and journaled for a while, then wandered toward the pond where swan boats drifted gently across the water.

In spring, the cherry blossoms here are stunning. In autumn, the leaves paint the park gold and crimson. It’s beautiful in every season.

Good to Know

• Open: 24/7, year-round

• Cost: Free

• Visit Duration: 1–2 hours (or a whole afternoon if you let yourself linger)

• Facilities: Public restrooms, vending machines, picnic spots, bicycle rentals on weekends

Snack Break

I brought along a conbini iced coffee and a mochi snack, but you’ll also find food trucks or nearby cafés just outside the park. There’s something extra sweet about enjoying them on a sunny bench surrounded by laughter and sakura trees.

Personal Tips

• Bring a blanket if you plan to lounge—especially in cherry blossom season

• Rent a bike on weekends to explore the park at your own pace

• Visit nearby Meiji Shrine (just through the trees!) for a beautiful contrast of sacred and social

• It’s the perfect spot to rest between Harajuku shopping and Shibuya exploring

Why I Loved It

⭐ 4.8/5 — “Yoyogi Park felt like Tokyo’s softer side—a place where the city breathes, plays, and invites you to slow down and join in.”

What You’ll Want to Capture

• Cherry blossoms in spring or golden leaves in autumn

• Candid park life—guitar players, dogs, rollerbladers

• Quiet corners near the pond or beneath the zelkova trees

• Your relaxed, happy self, iced coffee in hand and not a schedule in sight