Ninomaru Garden, Tokyo

Ninomaru Garden is probably Tokyo’s best-kept secret hiding in plain sight—right inside the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace. It’s free to enter (unless it's Monday, Friday, or New Year's, when even gardens deserve a day off), and it's the perfect escape hatch from the city’s non-stop hustle.

Now, a bit of backstory: This slice of serenity dates all the way back to 1632, courtesy of Kobori Enshū: legendary landscape designer, tea master, and certified aesthetic overachiever. Back then, this area wasn’t just a casual stroll spot—it was part of Edo Castle’s second line of defense. The original garden was lost to fire in the 1800s, but like all good things in Japan, it got a thoughtful reboot in 1968—thanks to an 18th-century design by former shogun Tokugawa Ieshige.

Today, Ninomaru Garden is a refined and tranquil space known for its classical Japanese aesthetics. Stone paths glide past mirror-still ponds, koi fish with attitude, and seasonal flowers that really understand color theory. Spring gives you cherry and plum blossoms. Summer—all lush greens. Autumn—foliage fireworks. And winter—minimalist moodiness in branch form.

Look out for Suwa-no-Chaya, a teahouse built in 1912 and relocated here later. Although no tea is served here anymore, it still carries “traditional vibes.” And those feeling slightly heroic can climb up the Tenshudai—the stone base of Edo Castle’s former main keep—for sweeping views and minor cardio.

Oh, and tree nerds can rejoice too, for there’s a miniature forest here representing all 47 prefectures of Japan. That’s right—260 trees, 30 species, one very ambitious arboretum. Toss in iris fields, sunflowers, azaleas… It’s like walking through a live-action botanical scroll.

Best of all, unlike the city's famous parks, this one's not packed. It’s a breath of calm, a history-tinged retreat, and a love letter to traditional Japanese beauty—all without the selfie stick stampede. So go ahead, wander slowly, snap a few quiet photos, or just stand still and pretend you’ve achieved inner peace. Ninomaru Garden will keep your secret...