In the heart of the forest surrounding the main hall of Meiji Jingu in Shibuya, Tokyo there is a small but exquisite strolling garden that predates the shrine itself. The iris beds, paths, and fishing pool were designed by the Meiji Emperor as a gift to his wife, and she spent many hours relaxing there. It is breathtaking any time of the year, from spring blossoms to autumn color, to the bare bones covered with snow in the winter. However, the most famous feature is the iris bed, which puts on an incredible show with thousands of flowers reflecting in the stream.
Meiji Jingu Gyoen park Torii (Photo credit: just me julie)
Though Meiji Jingu is free and open from sunrise to sunset, the inner garden has a 500 yen entrance fee to help with the maintenance. It is open from 9 am to 4:30 pm from March to October, and until 4 pm from November through February. June has extended viewing hours to enjoy the irises. In June it is open from 8 am to 5 pm on weekdays, and until 6 pm on weekends. The entrance is a gate on the left side of the gravel approach between the shrine tori gate and main building.
meiji jingu gyoen (Photo credit: ericsoco)
This small garden is a beautiful little gem that should not be missed. For more information: http://www.meijijingu.or.jp/english/nature/2.html
Meiji Jingu Gyoen gardens (photo: Roberta R./flickr)
