Yoyogi Park is just one of the big parks in Tokyo. It was once occupied as a military field and was also the site where Japan's first powered flight has taken place. The park also has historical value, as it became the official athletic village for the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games participants.
Now, it is a public park with serene ponds and wide lawns, ideal for picnicking with family, jogging, strolling, and other recreations.
The park also has cherry trees, but relatively few in contrast with other hanami spots in Tokyo. Yoyogi Park then grows many Ginkgo trees and Japanese Zelkova, which turn to golden and red foliage in autumn.
Yoyogi Park has been a great event place for recreational activities and an ideal location for mainstream events. It holds the Yoyogi National Stadium, a usual venue for concerts and sports events.
Yoyogi Park is also a sneek peak to other international festivals such as St. Patrick's Day, Songkran Festival (a Thai festival), One Love Jamaica, ASEAN Festival, Brazilian Day and Indonesian day, and a lot more! Aside from the Japanese food, park-goers can also try different cuisines from the various food stalls. Visitors can also find great deals in flea market events.
The park also has a bird sanctuary, dog run area, and a cycling center for bike rentals. There are also athletic fields for soccer and hockey, and also a basketball court.
Yoyogi Park is also close to Meiji Shrine, and shopping destinations in Tokyo such as Harajuku and Omotesando to name some.
Yoyogi Park is a 5 minute walk from Harajuku Station on the JR Yamanote Line.
The Park is open daily, with no admission fee.
Hours:
5:00 to 20:00 (May to September)
5:00 to 17:00 (October to April)