Special Night Viewing of the Autumn Leaves at Rikugien Gardens - A Classic Strolling Garden of the Edo Period

Rikugien Garden is a classic strolling garden of the Edo period, created over seven years beginning in 1695. Inspired by scenes from classical waka poetry, it features 88 celebrated viewpoints and is designated by the Japanese government as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty. Japanese maple and ginkgo trees are planted throughout the grounds, and as the leaves turn, the trees surrounding the central pond signal the arrival of autumn.

The annual autumn foliage illumination has been held since the early 2000s and is now a beloved hallmark of Tokyo's fall season. In 2022, the program was renewed as "Special Night Viewing of the Autumn Leaves at Rikugien Gardens," adding new elements such as projection mapping on the garden's historic earthen-walled storehouse. Visitors can enjoy magical reflections of the illuminated leaves on the pond's surface, as well as views from landmarks like Togetsukyo Bridge and Fujishiro-toge (Fujishiro Hill). An elegant evening stroll through this Edo garden—shaped by the world of waka poetry—continues to captivate all who visit.