What are some of the best nature attractions to explore in Shirokane?

Tokyo and its suburbs including the charmingly laid out region of Shirokane boast a dazzling collection of nature trails and well-kept gardens that would be both easy on the eye and great for exploring. Penned down below is a list of some of the most loved retreats that can be accessed when based in Shirokane, Tokyo.

Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Having once functioned as an estate to a feudal lord who lived during the Edo period, Shinjuku Gyeon National Garden ranks as one of Tokyo’s biggest parks covering as much as 144 acres. An outstanding way to take a break from the hectic pace of the city, the mentioned attraction is a classic portrayal of manicured garden spaces in Tokyo. Worthy of commentary is its English garden that bears reference to tree groves and rolling lawns, a breathtaking French garden coupled with a traditional Japanese garden that successfully captures the true essence of what a landscape garden ought to be.

Meiji Jingu Forest

A far cry from a manicured green space yet affording ample room in which to roam, catch your breath and be away from the big city, the tranquil setting of Meiji Jingu Forest must be a certainty when searching for nature-savvy places to visit in Shirokane. Situated outside of Yoyogi Park, Meiji Jingu Forest showcases a vast volume of species of trees from across Japan which are believed to number well in excess of 230. Upon entry to the Forest that will have you moving past the gargantuan torii gate, patrons will be warmly welcomed by expansive portions of greenery and a thick, forest canopy that will be your constant companion as you set about covering every inch there is to Meiji Jingu Forest. 

Institute for Nature Study

Established in the year 1949 with a view to safeguard and promote as much of Tokyo’s natural appeal as possible, the celebrated Institute for Nature Study, nestled in the heart of Meguro is well worth visiting when in Shirokane. Reputed for being Tokyo’s largest patch of forest, the Institute for Nature Study is a leisure and nature traveller’s dream destination because there is plenty to see. Encompassing 20 hectares of lush greenery, a majority of which remains unsculptured, this attraction features 3 botanical gardens to explore at one's own leisure. Overflowing with tree-lined trails that wind their way through this verdant wonderland, the visitor will be handed a chance to witness the Musashino Plain and its grasslands that are known to break out in shades of orange and red come the season of autumn. Essentially, the Institute for Nature Study can only be visited during the period covering September through April from 9 am to 5 pm, except on Mondays. Moreover, arriving during the morning is wise given that the Institute for Nature Study only permits entry to a few hundred visitors at a time. Further, when looking for a place to stay near the mentioned nature attraction, make a note of Oakwood Apartments Shirokane Tokyo (located 2.2 km away) which offers ease of access to foreigner-friendly apartments in Tokyo.

Suzume no Oyado Ryokuchi Park

Cool climes, less crowds and bamboo trees are prominent elements of Suzume no Oyado Ryokuchi Park which comes across as an excellent place to read a book, catch up with a friend or simply unwind on any of its benches with only your thoughts for company. Thus, if you wish for some peace and serenity, then nothing quite would compare to the value of spending a better part of your day at Suzume no Oyado Ryokuchi Park.