Kitanomaru Park, Tokyo

Just a stone’s throw north of Tokyo’s Imperial Palace lies a peaceful and scenic patch of green—Kitanomaru Park. Back in the day, this was the inner sanctum of Edo Castle, a fortified and fiercely guarded zone with armored samurais, secret passages, and a few stern-looking nobles—definitely not a picnic spot. Later, it became home to royal family members and local governors.

Although transformed into a public park in 1969, the samurai vibes still linger here. Two original castle gates—Shimizu and Tayasu—remain standing. The latter gate, dating back to 1685, is a true masterclass in Edo-era "keep out" design, with defensive layers and narrow courtyards set to slow down invaders. Walking through it feels like time-traveling—minus the awkward armor and no admission ticket required.

What’s more, this park isn’t just a museum with trees. It’s also home to the legendary Nippon Budokan, where martial arts meet rock concerts. Yes, that’s the same Budokan where the Beatles played. You’ll also find the Science Museum—perfect if you like your nature with a side of interactive fun—and the National Museum of Modern Art, where Japan’s creative genius is on full display. Once there, head to the top floor for one of Tokyo’s best views. Seriously, no one talks about it, but they should.

And if you’re not in a museum mood—No problem. Kitanomaru has trails for strolling, benches for loafing, and cherry blossoms that’ll make your Instagram blush. It’s a calm, crowd-free oasis in a city that never takes a nap. In short, if you're hunting cherry blossoms, geeking out on science, or just looking for a breather after sightseeing, this green escape quietly delivers all these goods—no ninja training required.