One of Tokyo’s largest public parks, Ueno-koen Park has something for every visitor - museums for the art and science lovers, a zoo for animal lovers, restaurants and cafes, cherry blossom trees, and temples and shrines. It’s a great place for anyone visiting Tokyo.
Ueno Park - image © Florentyna Leow
Prior to the Meiji Restoration in 1868, the sprawling Kaneiji Temple in Ueno was one of Tokyo’s largest, wealthiest temples. But following near-destruction in the civil war, the grounds were converted into a Western-style park and opened to the public in 1873. It’s a boon for all of us today, given the number of public institutions and opportunities for entertainment in Ueno-koen Park.
Ueno Park - image © Florentyna Leow
Today, Ueno-koen Park is known for its museums. On the park grounds, you’ll find several world-class museums, such as the Tokyo National Museum and National Museum of Western Art, that’ll keep you occupied for a good day or two. Families often end up at Ueno Zoo, Japan’s first zoological garden. In summer, visitors flock to Shinobazu Pond, which at this time of the year is covered in what looks like a sea of lotus flowers. Or, you could simply kick back at one of the cafes lining the central square and watch the world go by.
Ueno Park - image © Florentyna Leow
Ueno-koen Park may be most famous and beloved for its cherry blossom trees. In spring is either festive or crowded, depending on your point of view. During sakura season, the central pathway turns into a giant hanami (blossom-viewing) party as thousands of Tokyoites, beer bottles in hand, huddle under the trees on their blue tarpaulin sheets. Quieter sakura appreciation can be had elsewhere, but the party atmosphere here is second to none.
English name:
Ueno Park
Japanese name:
上野恩賜公園
English address:
Uenokoen, Taito-ku, Tokyo, 110-0007
Japanese address:
〒110-0007 東京都台東区上野公園
Opening hours:
24h
Admission:
free
Nearest Transport:
Train: 1-minute walk from the Park exit of Ueno Station.
Nearest Hotels:
:: Check availability and pricing for hotels near Ueno Park on Booking.com or Agoda.com.
Telephone:
+81-3-3828-5644
Website:
Official Website (English of the machine translation)
Near To Here:
Ueno Park is located in Tokyo's Ueno district. See our complete list of things to do in Ueno, including places to eat, nightlife and places to stay.
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