When is the best time to see Meiji Shrine Gaien Ginkgo Avenue golden leaves?

The best time to visit Meiji Shrine Gaien Ginkgo Avenue for peak autumn colors is typically mid to late November. The ginkgo trees along Icho Namiki Avenue turn brilliant golden yellow during this period, creating Tokyo's most famous ginkgo tree tunnel. Peak viewing usually occurs between November 15-30, though exact timing varies yearly based on weather conditions.

Where is Meiji Shrine Gaien Ginkgo Avenue located and how to get there?

Meiji Shrine Gaien Ginkgo Avenue (Icho Namiki) is located in Minato Ward, Tokyo, between Aoyama-dori and Gaien-mae. The nearest stations are Gaienmae Station (Ginza Line) and Aoyama-itchome Station (Ginza, Hanzomon, Oedo Lines). The famous ginkgo tree-lined street runs from the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery toward the Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, creating a stunning 300-meter golden corridor.

Are there admission fees to visit Meiji Shrine Gaien Ginkgo trees?

No, visiting Meiji Shrine Gaien Ginkgo Avenue is completely free. You can walk along Icho Namiki Avenue and enjoy the beautiful ginkgo trees without any entrance fees. However, if you wish to visit the nearby Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery or attend events at surrounding facilities like Tokyo Metropolitan Gymnasium, separate admission fees may apply.

What are the best photography spots at Meiji Shrine Gaien Ginkgo Avenue?

The most popular photography spots at Meiji Shrine Gaien Ginkgo Avenue include the central pathway looking toward the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery, capturing the symmetrical ginkgo tree tunnel effect. Early morning (7-9 AM) offers the best lighting and fewer crowds. The avenue provides stunning golden canopy shots, and the contrast between the yellow ginkgo leaves and the historic gallery building creates iconic Tokyo autumn photographs.

How long does the ginkgo season last at Meiji Shrine Gaien?

The ginkgo season at Meiji Shrine Gaien typically lasts 2-3 weeks, usually from early to late November. The leaves begin changing color in early November, reach peak golden color mid-November, and start falling by early December. Weather conditions like wind and rain can significantly shorten the viewing period, so checking current foliage reports and visiting during peak season is recommended for the best Icho Namiki experience.

Tokyo

Meiji Shrine Gaien Ginkgo Trees

Last updated Sep 9, 2026

The Meiji Shrine Gaien Ginkgo Trees form one of Tokyo's most spectacular seasonal displays, lining a 300-meter avenue that connects the Gaien area to the outer gardens of Meiji Shrine. This iconic tree-lined boulevard was established in 1926 as part of the Meiji Jingu Gaien complex, which was created to commemorate Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. The avenue features 146 ginkgo trees planted in four rows, creating a golden tunnel that has become synonymous with Tokyo's autumn season.

The ginkgo avenue reaches its peak beauty in mid to late November when the leaves transform into brilliant shades of gold and yellow. The trees were specifically chosen and arranged to create a symmetrical perspective, with shorter trees planted closer to Aoyama-dori and progressively taller ones toward the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery, producing a dramatic visual effect. This careful planning demonstrates the Japanese aesthetic principle of borrowed scenery and intentional design in public spaces. The site has appeared in countless films, television dramas, and advertisements, cementing its status as a cultural landmark.

Visitors can walk freely along the pedestrian-friendly avenue, which is particularly crowded during the Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival held annually in November. The festival features food stalls and craft vendors, though the trees themselves remain the primary attraction. Photographers gather throughout the day, with late afternoon light providing especially striking conditions. The nearby Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery houses 80 large-scale paintings depicting significant events from Emperor Meiji's life and is worth visiting for those interested in Meiji-era history.

The ginkgo avenue is located in the Kasumigaoka-machi area of Shinjuku Ward. The nearest station is Gaienmae Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, approximately a 5-minute walk away. Aoyama-itchome Station on the Ginza, Hanzomon, and Oedo Lines provides alternative access within 10 minutes on foot. JR Shinanomachi Station and Sendagaya Station are also within walking distance. Entry to the avenue itself is free and open year-round, though the Memorial Picture Gallery charges an admission fee of 500 yen for adults.