Opened in 1903 Hibiya Park was Japan’s first Western-style park. Before that the area served as army training grounds. Even earlier it housed residences for Edo-period lords. It’s a place alive with people working nearby on weekdays. Families visit on weekends and holidays.
Today Hibiya Park covers over 160000 square meters. That’s about four times the size of the Tokyo Dome. Surrounded by buildings it is an oasis in the heart of the city. Many business people visit during the daytime.
Let’s talk about its history. During the Edo period the land belonged to powerful feudal lords. The Mori and Nabeshima clans owned estates here. Later in the Meiji era it became a military parade ground. Then in 1903 it transformed into a Western-inspired park.
However the park’s opening wasn’t without its challenges. In 1905 the Hibiya Riots broke out right here. Thirty thousand people protested against the Treaty of Portsmouth. This treaty ended the Russo-Japanese War. Fueled by nationalism the riots spread across Tokyo.
Look around and notice the seasonal flowers. Hibiya Park lets you feel the changing seasons all year. In spring wisteria and dogwood bloom. Summer brings hydrangeas and gardenias. Fragrant olive blossoms in fall. Plum blossoms appear in winter.
The large fountain is a symbol of Hibiya Park. It squirts water up to 12 meters high. The pond has a 30-meter diameter creating a cool atmosphere. On the north side is Kumogata-ike Pond. It features the third oldest fountain in Japan’s urban parks.
Notice the cherry blossom and ginkgo trees around the pond. They offer beautiful views in spring and fall. The first flower garden is on the east side. The second one is on the west side. Roses grow in all corners of each garden. Mid-May to mid-June and mid-October to mid-November are the best times to view them. Colorful tulips bloom from March through May.
Don’t miss the “Risky Ginkgo”. This ginkgo tree is about 500 years old. Saving it almost cost the park’s designer his job. He fought to save the tree in 1901.
Hibiya Park is also known for its open-air concert venue. It’s called Hibiya Open-Air Concert Hall or Yaon. The park also has tennis courts. Reservations are very competitive because of their location.
Consider visiting Hibiya Matsumotoro. It’s in the middle of the park. You can enjoy Western food on the first floor and French cuisine on the second. Along Harumi-dori Avenue you’ll find Hibiya Saroh. They offer international cuisine and beers.
Remember Hibiya Park offers more than nature. You can enjoy events and meals here too. As a park with different seasonal views it’s definitely worth a visit. It stands as an oasis of calm in the heart of Tokyo. A beloved place for many to take a break.