What other travelers are saying about Otaguro Park
I came to this park because it looked really nice, and it did have a bit of a crowd, but nothing overwhelming. Right now, the leaves are absolutely beautiful, and I would highly recommend visiting during this season. The colors were a mix of yellows, greens, reds, and some oranges, and it made the whole area feel really peaceful and lovely.
There’s no cost to enter and no wait—you can just walk right in. The park itself is on the smaller side, but there are several other parks in the area as well if you want to explore more. This one, though, is a great little spot to relax and enjoy the autumn scenery.
It’s easy to get to, and while there are more people around right now because it’s autumn, it still feels calm enough to just stroll through and enjoy. I definitely recommend stopping by if you’re nearby.
We came on 4 Dec 2025 to view the night autumn foliage lit-up display and were totally awe-struck by the stunningly beautiful scenes. The short walk around the compact park was spectacular, with almost perfect and incredible instagramable shots every step of the way. Our experience was enhanced by the dark blue sky with wispy clouds, and to top it all we had a full moon in attendance. Inspite of the crowd and very cold weather, this is an amazing and enjoyable experience which I’ll always remember.
Otaguro Park is a beautiful place to visit in any season — and it becomes even more enjoyable when combined with the nearby “Ogikubo Three Gardens” walking route.
A free guide is available at the park, introducing Otaguro Park, Tekigaiso Park, and Kadokawa Garden, all located within a short walking distance.
Otaguro Park itself changes dramatically throughout the year:
spring brings soft cherry blossoms, summer offers deep green shade and cool streams, autumn fills the garden with vivid red maples and golden ginkgo trees, and winter reveals a quiet, minimal landscape.
The photos show the park at its most colorful — a mirror-like pond reflecting the autumn foliage and the warm light filtering through the trees.
The other two gardens add their own unique charm to the walk.
Tekigaiso Park carries a calm historical atmosphere, once home to a former prime minister.
Kadokawa Garden blends Western-style architecture with a Japanese garden setting, creating a rare harmony of cultures.
Together, these three spots create a gentle half-day route where visitors can enjoy nature, history, and the changing seasons in a quieter part of Tokyo.
It’s an ideal escape for anyone looking to experience a more intimate side of the city.
extremely beautiful autumn leaves at night, with the lighting. entrance fee is 300 yen. worth to come if you visit Tokyo. please note there is quite a lot of people.
Otaguro Park, just a short distance from central Tokyo, offers a serene autumn escape, with a quiet atmosphere and a graceful row of pine trees lining the entrance.
Otaguro Park is open daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM throughout the year. The park is closed on Mondays (or the following Tuesday if Monday is a national holiday) and during the New Year holiday period from December 28 to January 4. During the peak autumn foliage season in late November, the park typically extends its hours and remains open on Mondays to accommodate increased visitor numbers.
The most popular time to visit is late November, typically around the third and fourth weeks, when the two ancient ginkgo trees turn brilliant golden yellow. This autumn foliage period draws significant crowds and is considered the park's signature spectacle. However, the park offers beauty year-round, with irises blooming in June, hydrangeas in early summer, and vibrant red maple leaves complementing the ginkgos in autumn. Spring also brings fresh green foliage and cherry blossoms to the surrounding area.
The original Otaguro residence is preserved on the park grounds but is not always open for interior viewing. The building opens for special exhibitions and events related to music, literature, and the life of Motoo Otaguro, typically several times throughout the year. Visitors can always view the exterior architecture and surrounding garden. Check with Suginami Ward's cultural facilities or the park's official information for current exhibition schedules.
Yes, photography is permitted throughout Otaguro Park for personal use. The park is a popular destination for both amateur and professional photographers, especially during the autumn foliage season when the ginkgo trees provide stunning backdrops. Visitors are encouraged to be respectful of other guests and the tranquil atmosphere while taking photographs. Tripods are generally allowed, though during crowded periods staff may request visitors to be mindful of pathways and other guests.
Otaguro Park is a small traditional garden with minimal facilities. Restrooms are available on site for visitor use. The park has benches positioned throughout the garden for resting and contemplation. There is no café or restaurant within the park itself, though the surrounding Ogikubo area offers numerous dining options. Vending machines may be available near the entrance. Given the park's compact size of approximately 8,000 square meters, most visits last between 30 minutes to one hour.
