🍁✨ Tonogayato Garden – A secret garden in the middle of Tokyo for viewing

Tonogayato Gardens (殿ヶ谷戸庭園)

✨ Known in Thai as "Tonogayato Garden" or "殿ヶ谷戸 Garden," this is one of Tokyo's most beautiful and tranquil Japanese gardens, perfect for a relaxing getaway from nature. In the middle of a big city! 😊



📍 General Information
• Address: 2-16 Minamichō, Kokubunji-shi, Tokyo 185-0021, Japan
• Opening Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Last admission: 4:30 PM)
• Holidays: Closed from December 29th to January 1st
• Admission: Adults approximately ¥150, Seniors approximately ¥70 (Children free during certain periods)
• Area: Approximately 21,000 sq.m (21,123.59 sq.m)



🌳 Must-See Highlights
• The garden was designed to utilize the natural topography of the Musashino Plateau's "terrace cliffs," providing a variety of views. From the highest open lawn, the garden slopes steeply, with water and a bamboo grove at the lower part of the garden.
• There's a pond, "Jiro Benten Pond," that incorporates a natural spring into the landscape, fed by water flowing from a natural gravel/soil layer.
• During the fall foliage season, from mid-November to early December, the bridge/walkway/corner in front of "Kōyō-tei Tea House" is a prime spot for viewing the red and gold maples. ✨
• It combines the style of a strolling Japanese garden with a Western-style garden (open lawn), creating a feeling unlike any other Japanese garden.



🍁 Why it's perfect for fall foliage season?
• Although it's not far from the city center, the quiet, peaceful atmosphere and the natural contrast with the city create a truly idyllic "oasis" in the Tokyo suburbs.
• The maple leaves around the pond and along the walkway turn red, creating a stunning photo opportunity.
• Since the garden isn't as large, it's not as crowded as other famous gardens. This makes for a comfortable, relaxing stroll.



🚉 How to Get There
• Take the train to Kokubunji Station (JR Chūō Line / Seibu Kokubunji Line / Seibu Tamako Line) and take the South Exit. It's about a 2-minute walk to the garden. 
• There is no dedicated parking at the garden, so if you're driving, it's more convenient to find parking in the city or nearby and continue your journey. 



💡 Visiting Tips
• Visit around mid-November to see the red leaves in full bloom (peak season is mid- to late-month).
• Early morning or late evening, the light is soft and there aren't many people, making it ideal for taking photos.
• There are also cafes and bakeries near Kokubunji Station, so stop by before or after your walk.
• The garden has several levels: grass → steep path → pond → bamboo → foliage zone. If you're ready to walk through all the zones, you'll feel like you're in the middle of a small forest.
• Because it's a simple garden, it's not a large park-like setting. Allow at least an hour for a leisurely stroll and some photos.



✅ Summary

If you're looking for a peaceful, beautiful nature spot not too far from downtown Tokyo, Tonogayato Gardens is a great choice. With its history, diverse landscape, and stunning autumn foliage, 🌿🍂 it's perfect for both travelers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and for those who love capturing authentic Japanese nature photography.

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Post by Gochill™️ | Oct 24, 2025

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