Looking for a peaceful escape in the heart of Tokyo?
The Meiji Jingu Inner Garden offers a quiet, scenic retreat filled with historical charm and seasonal beauty.
In this guide, you’ll find everything you need to plan your visit—from the entrance fee and opening hours to the best photo spots and must-see highlights within the garden.
目次(Table of Contents)
- 1 Exploring the Gardens of Meiji Shrine: A Hidden Oasis in Tokyo
- 2 Highlights of Meiji Shrine’s Inner Garden (Yoyogi Gyoen)
- 2.1 North Gate – A Quiet Entrance into the Garden
- 2.2 Kakuuntei – The Royal Rest Pavilion
- 2.3 Nakanoshima – A Small Island of Calm
- 2.4 South Pond – The Heart of the Garden
- 2.5 Fishing Stand – Where the Empress Once Fished
- 2.6 Iris Garden – 150 Varieties Blooming in Early Summer
- 2.7 Kiyomasa’s Well – Tokyo’s Spiritual Power Spot
- 2.8 Azalea Hill – A Vibrant Springtime Display
- 3 Conclusion: A Tranquil Garden Full of Seasonal Beauty and History
Exploring the Gardens of Meiji Shrine: A Hidden Oasis in Tokyo
Discover the Inner Garden (Yoyogi Gyoen)
Tucked away behind the bustling streets of Harajuku lies the Inner Garden, also known as Yoyogi Gyoen—a peaceful retreat that dates back to the Edo period.
Originally part of a feudal lord’s estate, this traditional Japanese garden later became a favorite spot for Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken.
Highlights include:
- Kiyomasa’s Well
– a sacred power spot surrounded by tranquil nature - Iris Garden
– bursts into vibrant bloom in early summer (June) - Tea house and South Pond
– ideal for peaceful reflection
The Inner Garden requires a small ¥500 maintenance contribution and is open year-round, with seasonal beauty in every visit.
When and How to Visit
The Inner Garden is open daily, with slightly varying hours depending on the season. Spring, early summer, and autumn are especially recommended for their vibrant foliage and flowers.
- Best access: JR Harajuku Station (Inner Garden), or Aoyama-Itchome Station (Outer Garden)
- Best time to visit: Morning for quiet atmosphere, or autumn for golden leaves
Highlights of Meiji Shrine’s Inner Garden (Yoyogi Gyoen)
The Inner Garden of Meiji Jingu, also known as Yoyogi Gyoen, is filled with hidden gems that reflect the tranquility and cultural depth of this sacred space.
From historical teahouses to seasonal flower displays, each spot offers its own charm and story.
Here are some of the garden’s most beloved highlights that you won’t want to miss during your visit.
| Spot Name | Features & Highlights |
|---|---|
| North Gate | A quiet entrance to the garden, offering a peaceful transition from the shrine approach. |
| Kakuuntei | A beautiful teahouse linked to Empress Shōken, showcasing traditional sukiya-style architecture. |
| Nakanoshima | A relaxing island in the South Pond, offering calm and scenic views of nature. |
| South Pond | The central feature of the garden, showcasing seasonal beauty throughout the year. |
| Fishing Stand | Once used by Empress Shōken, this nostalgic spot reflects the calm of imperial leisure. |
| Iris Garden | Home to 150 iris varieties that bloom in early summer—a favorite of the imperial couple. |
| Kiyomasa’s Well | A sacred well said to be dug by Kato Kiyomasa, known as one of Tokyo’s most powerful energy spots. |
| Azalea Hill | A hillside bursting with colorful azaleas in spring—perfect for photos and seasonal charm. |
North Gate – A Quiet Entrance into the Garden
The North Gate is the main access point to the Inner Garden. Unlike the bustling paths near the main shrine, this entrance offers a serene and shaded transition into the tranquil world of Yoyogi Gyoen. A perfect start to your peaceful walk.
Kakuuntei – The Royal Rest Pavilion
Built for Empress Shōken, Kakuuntei is a traditional thatched-roof teahouse nestled beside the pond.
Although the interior is not open to the public, its elegant presence reflects the refined tastes of the Meiji-era imperial family.
Nakanoshima – A Small Island of Calm
Located in the South Pond, Nakanoshima is a small, scenic island that adds charm and balance to the garden's landscape. 
In spring and autumn, its reflections on the water create a picture-perfect scene.
South Pond – The Heart of the Garden
The South Pond is the centerpiece of the Inner Garden. Surrounded by seasonal foliage, it offers a peaceful view year-round. 
Turtles, koi, and wild birds often gather here, adding to the natural beauty.
Fishing Stand – Where the Empress Once Fished
The Fishing Stand (Otsuridai) was beloved by Empress Shōken, who reportedly enjoyed fishing here. Today, it stands as a nostalgic spot that evokes the leisurely moments of Japan’s royal past.
Iris Garden – 150 Varieties Blooming in Early Summer
One of the garden’s most famous attractions, the Iris Garden comes alive in June with over 150 varieties of irises. 
These elegant flowers were especially cherished by Emperor Meiji and Empress Shōken.
Kiyomasa’s Well – Tokyo’s Spiritual Power Spot
Known as one of Tokyo’s most famous power spots, Kiyomasa’s Well is said to bring calm energy to those who visit. The water is exceptionally clear and flows year-round from a natural spring.
Azalea Hill – A Vibrant Springtime Display
In spring, Azalea Hill bursts into color with bright pink, red, and white blooms. The gentle slope covered in azaleas is a favorite photo spot and a symbol of seasonal beauty in the Inner Garden.
Conclusion: A Tranquil Garden Full of Seasonal Beauty and History
The Inner Garden of Meiji Jingu is more than just a quiet escape—it's a place where nature, history, and spirituality come together in harmony.
Whether you're drawn by the blooming irises in early summer, the peaceful pond views, or the garden’s hidden power spots like Kiyomasa’s Well, there's something to enjoy in every season.
- Entrance fee:
¥500 for the Inner Garden - Open daily:
Hours vary by season - Top photo spots:
Iris Garden, Azalea Hill, Kiyomasa’s Well, and more
If you're visiting Meiji Jingu Shrine, don't miss the chance to explore this peaceful retreat tucked just beyond the torii gates.
It's the perfect spot to slow down, take memorable photos, and connect with Japan’s natural and cultural heritage.
Meiji Shrine
4 must-visit power spots
Meiji Shrine Gardens
There is an admission fee to enter Meiji Shrine, but it is well worth the cost.
