The Colours of a Tokyo Autumn: Top 7 Viewing Spots

Come autumn, Tokyo lights up in a palette of vivid hues – bright yellows, deep reds, glimmering golds. All across the city, beautifully landscaped parks and gardens invite visitors to appreciate the splendid seasonal gifts of nature.

Guests at Four Seasons Hotel Tokyo at Otemachi can easily access a number of stunning fall landscapes. Several viewing spots lie within walking distance, while others may be reached via a short subway ride.

Enjoy the magical glow of autumn colours at these top 7 spots, as recommended by the Four Seasons Concierge.

East Imperial Gardens

This traditional Japanese garden showcases a glorious display of fall foliage. Wander through the picturesque grounds filled with golden ginkgos, vibrant mulberry trees and stoic evergreens.

• Best time to visit: Mid-November until mid-December
• From the Hotel: 5-10 minutes on foot

Hibiya Park

Tokyo’s first Western-style park, which opened in 1903, is home to a massive ginkgo tree that is believed to be 400-500 years old. With beautiful flowerbeds in bloom all year round, Hibiya Park is a true oasis in the busy heart of Tokyo.

• Best time to visit: End of November to beginning of December
• From the Hotel: 20-25 minutes on foot, or 10 minutes by subway via Chiyoda Line

Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue

One of the most popular autumn-leaf viewing spots in the city, this 300-metre (1,000 foot) avenue is lined with 146 ginkgo trees, creating a stunning golden tunnel. Begin at the Aoyama Nichome intersection and emerge in the outer gardens of the Meiji Shrine. Along the way are cafés where one can sit and enjoy the crisp autumn breeze.

• Best time to visit: End of November to beginning of December
• From the Hotel: 25 minutes by subway via Hanzomon Line

Shinjuku Gyoen

Perfect for leisurely walks and photography, this national garden is famous for its three distinctive sections: the Japanese garden with red maple leaves; the British garden shimmering with golden ginkgos; and the French garden evoking the European autumn. Framed by soaring skyscrapers, the grounds offer an intriguing interplay of old and new.

• Best time to visit: End of November to beginning of December
• From the Hotel: 30 minutes by subway via Marunouchi Line

Yoyogi Park

Soak in the striking contrasts of autumn at this scenic park. The main fountain is surrounded by deep red foliage, while the Harajuku Gate is framed by bright yellow ginkgo leaves.

• Best time to visit: End of November to beginning of December
• From the Hotel: 25 minutes by subway via Chiyoda Line

Komazawa Olympic Park

Used as a secondary venue during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, this park is known for its iconic “Jenga tower,” designed by Yoshinobu Ashihara. Explore the grounds to enjoy the fall colours of zelkova trees.

• Best time to visit: End of November to beginning of December
• From the Hotel: 40 minutes by subway via Hanzomon Line

Ueno Park

This vast park is famous for its vibrant autumn foliage. Stroll down the avenue from the main gate all the way to Tokyo National Museum – the entire route is lined with zelkova and ginkgo trees.

• Best time to visit: End of November to beginning of December
• From the Hotel: 15 minutes by subway via Chiyoda Line