Visit "The Garden of Words" in Tokyo.

Tokyo is widely known as one of the busiest cities in Japan and Asia. When thinking of Tokyo, the first image that often comes to mind is the bustling Shibuya intersection with thousands of people walking down the street at the same time. Trains packed with office workers in dark suits have become an iconic symbol of Tokyo. However, right in the heart of the city, there is a tranquil garden called Shinjuku Gyoen.

The garden covers 58.3 hectares and contains more than 20,000 ancient trees, including about 1,500 cherry blossom trees.

Over 400 years ago, this was part of the estate of King Naito during the Edo period. After the war, it became a national park, divided into three areas, each reflecting the garden styles of Japan, England, and France.

Shinjuku Gyoen has always been considered a top destination in Tokyo. Director Makoto Shinkai, known for his blockbuster film "Your Nam," made a short animated film set there titled "The Garden of Words." Since this work, many people have referred to the park by the film's title.

A vast green space with numerous lakes is interspersed among three gardens, each designed in a different style. The entire complex is surrounded by Tokyo's important financial skyscrapers. Throughout the year, city residents and tourists alike flock here to admire the natural beauty amidst the bustling metropolis.

The most beautiful time of day at Shinjuku Gyoen is probably in the afternoon, when the sun gradually sets, transforming the entire garden into a giant carpet of sunlight, making everyone want to lie on the grass to relax or sit by the lake to paint or read.

If you visit on a rainy day and sit by the wooden gazebo by the lake, you'll feel like you're the main character in the animated film "The Garden of Words," as the scene takes place on a rainy day.

On sunny days, families, couples, or groups of friends can enjoy camping and relaxing outdoors.

The garden is open daily except Mondays. If Monday is a national holiday, the garden will be closed the following day. Opening hours are from 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM. The garden has three entrances: Shinjuku, Okido, and Sendagaya. You can get there by subway; get off at the nearest station, Shinjuku-sanchome, exit through exit C1, and walk four minutes to reach the garden.

Bao Khuyen