Ueno Park

Overview

Ueno Park is Tokyo's most culturally dense public park, home to the city's highest concentration of major museums, a large zoo, beautiful shrines, and atmospheric lotus ponds.

Highlights

• Museum Row: The park contains the Tokyo National Museum, National Museum of Western Art (Le Corbusier), National Museum of Nature and Science, and Tokyo Metropolitan Art Museum.
• Shinobazu Pond: A large, atmospheric pond covered with lotus flowers in summer, split into three sections including a boating area.
• Cherry Blossom Alley: Over 1,000 cherry trees line the main promenade, creating Tokyo's most famous (and rowdy) hanami party spot each spring.

History

The site of the Kan'ei-ji temple complex, which was largely destroyed during the 1868 Boshin War. The park was established in 1873, modeled on European public parks, and became Japan's first Western-style public park.

Visitor Tips

• Museum Strategy: A full day is needed to even scratch the surface. Prioritize the Tokyo National Museum and one other.
• Ameyoko: The chaotic, narrow Ameyoko market street runs along the park's southern edge, selling everything from fresh fish to sneakers.
• Duration: 2–4 hours.