New Year at Tokyo’s Gardens

On January 2 and 3, eight metropolitan gardens in Tokyo open and host special events to celebrate the start of the New Year.

What happens?

Each garden will have a special event including New Year’s decorations, children’s play areas, and commemorative photo spots.

• Hamarikyu Gardens: At 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. on January 3, there will be a falconry display. Visitors can also play some traditional-style Japanese New Year’s games and enjoy some matcha and sweets.
• Kyu-Shiba Rikyu Garden: From 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., visitors can play some New Year’s games including kendama, a wooden skill toy. There will also be a commemorative photo spot.
• Koishikawa Korakuen: The event taking place at Kyu-Shiba Rikyu Garden will also be taking place at Koshikawa Korakuen at the same time, plus matcha and sweets.
• Rikugien: From 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., those wearing a kimono will receive an original Rikugien postcard. There will also be a special flower display and commemorative photo spot.
• Former Iwasaki Residence Garden: Beautiful fresh flowers will be displayed in honor of the new year. Visitors can also write their resolutions down on wishing cards.
• Kiyosumi Garden: Visitors can learn more about the history of the Iwasaki Family and gardens through a special exhibition.
• Old Koga Garden: There will be a chance to play New Year’s games such as kendama and spinning tops as well as a commemorative photo spot.
• Tonogayato Garden: There will be some displays and games.

Tickets

Some of the gardens have a small entrance fee:

• Hamarikyu Gardens: adults, ¥300 and over 65s, ¥150
• Kyu-Shiba Rikyu Garden: adults ¥150 and over 65s, ¥70
• Koishikawa Korakuen: adults, ¥300 and over 65s, ¥150
• Rikugien: adults, ¥300 and over 65s, ¥150
• Former Iwasaki Residence Garden: adults, ¥400 and over 65s, ¥200
• Kiyosumi Garden: adults, ¥150 and over 65s, ¥70
• Tongayato Garden: adults and Junior high school students, ¥150 and over 65s, ¥70