Glorious Autumnal Spectacle! Tokyo's Ginkgo-Lined Streets Awash in Golden Splendor! Discover Oishii Japan -SAVOR JAPAN -Japanese Restaurant Reservation Guide-

Update-Date: Jun 3, 2025

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

Glorious Autumnal Spectacle! Tokyo's Ginkgo-Lined Streets Awash in Golden Splendor!

One of the most breathtaking sights during the fall season in Tokyo is the shimmering golden leaves of Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue. Have you ever wondered why there is such an abundance of these elegant trees in Tokyo? It's because the ginkgo trees are appreciated as a symbolic tree of Tokyo! Read on to discover the top spots to bask in the radiant beauty of the ginkgo trees and savor delectable cuisine at the charming restaurants nestled in these areas.

'Tis the Season for Gingko––Indulge in Japan's Autumnal Allure

If you are traveling in Japan in the fall, you don't want to miss witnessing the vibrant foliage! When you hear of fall foliage, the first thing that comes to mind may be the fiery red maple leaves; however, if you really want to experience the seasonal atmosphere in Tokyo, ginkgo viewing is highly recommended! Tokyo boasts a plethora of prime ginkgo spots, from the area around Tokyo Station, a gateway to the nation's public transportation network, to the serene Meiji Jingu Gaien, which will be introduced later in this article.

Ginkgo trees can reach heights of around 30 meters with trunk diameters of about 2 meters, and these mighty giants bear numerous fan-shaped leaves. The optimal window to view Tokyo's ginkgo leaves in their golden glory usually spans from mid-November to early December. This is when every leaf from top to bottom turns brilliant golden hues to create a truly magnificent spectacle! But the magic doesn't end there. As the leaves fall from trees, they form a golden carpet on the ground, adding another element of wonder to the seasonal experience. These majestic ginkgo trees are usually planted along the roadsides, so you should be able to come across this awe-inspiring scenery during your strolls through Tokyo.

As the ginkgo leaves make their magical transformations, the peak season sweeps across the nation from south to north, much like the progression of cherry blossoms. However, unlike the brief ten-day lifespan of cherry blossoms after their peak bloom, ginkgo leaves linger in their golden splendor for a generous two to three weeks, giving them a longer time to revel in their beauty. If you are traveling during this season, do take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the radiant charm of the golden ginkgo leaves.

Delight in the Enchanting Beauty of the Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue!

One of the most popular gingko-viewing locations in Tokyo is the rows of dazzling yellow trees adorning the streets of Meiji Jingu Gaien. If you get off at the Tokyo Metro's Gaienmae or Aoyama-itchome Stations and walk along Aoyama-dori Avenue, you will soon encounter a street leading to the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery. This 300-meter boulevard is lined with magnificent ginkgo trees on both sides, with 146 trees spaced approximately 9 meters apart, all in procession toward the Picture Gallery in a splendid display. This remarkable landscape was actually developed through meticulous planning.

This street has a gentle 1-meter decline leading towards the Picture Gallery. The head landscape architect was Yoshinobu Orishimo, considered a master of modern landscape architecture in Japan. He calculated the height of the trees and the slope of the boulevard and incorporated the principles of perspective into the placement of the trees. It may be thanks to his profound knowledge of the art of painting that he came up with the idea to use perspective when designing the tree-lined street.

Every year, from mid-November to early December, the Ginkgo Festival is held in Meiji Jingu Gaien in line with the peak period for the golden leaves. The festivities are further enriched by an array of food stalls that offer palate-pleasing menus and special delicacies. The average temperature in Tokyo around late November is 14℃—comfortably cool and great for taking strolls. A leisurely walk beneath the golden canopies would be the perfect way to spend an afternoon.

Another annual event to look forward to is the illuminations that transform the streets into a luminous wonderland. From late November to early December, from 4:30 pm to 7:30 pm, the ginkgo trees come alive in golden radiance under the glow of the lights, offering an enchanting sight!

Delightful Dining Destinations to Enjoy on Your Strolls

The vicinity surrounding Gaienmae is dotted with stylish shops and restaurants for you to discover. Here is a selection of dining establishments that are sure to satisfy your palate to complement your lovely walks.

IL LUPINO PRIME TOKYO (Omotesando / Italian)

IL LUPINO PRIME TOKYO is a trattoria and bar curated by Wolfgang Zweiner, the founder of the world-renowned Wolfgang's Steakhouse. Here, patrons can indulge in a unique dining style of sharing generously proportioned dishes at their tables.

The signature menu item is the extravagant Italian steak dish, the [Bistecca alla Fiorentina], made with the finest USDA prime beef. Both sirloin and filet cuts can be savored with the [USDA Prime T-Bone Steak 800g] (26,400 JPY).

Another popular menu item is the [Handmade Pappardelle Truffle Cream Sauce] (3,960 JPY). The handmade, wide-noodle pasta boasts a chewy al dente texture and harmonizes perfectly with the creamy truffle sauce.

The main dining area is adorned with chandeliers, and spread across four floors are the VIP rooms, a bar counter, and an open-air terrace, each designed to cater to guests for all occasions. There are two private VIP rooms, each designed to seat eight guests, that can be combined to accommodate larger gatherings of up to 20 people. The rooms provide a tranquil ambiance that is perfect for celebratory occasions and dining with a large group.

IL LUPINO PRIME TOKYO

Open: 11:30 am - 11:30 pm (L.O.10:30 pm)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY / [Lunch] 5,000 JPY
Access: 5 minutes walk from the A3 exit of Omotesando Station on the Tokyo Metro Lines, and 7 minutes walk from the Exit 3 of Gaienmae Station on the Tokyo Metro Ginza Line. On the 2nd floor of Nonoaoyama
Address: 2F, Nonoaoyama, 3-4-3, Kita-Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo Map
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Yakiniku USHIGORO Omotesando Branch (Omotesando / Japanese BBQ)

Yakiniku USHIGORO Omotesando Branch is a Japanese BBQ restaurant that serves only the highest A5-grade beef from the domestic Kuroge Wagyu (Japanese black cattle). Guests can grill the tender beef to their preference to enjoy the fatty sweetness and succulent tenderness. Also available are rare cuts, such as the [Premium Black Tongue Thick Slices] (2,700 JPY).

Don't miss the uniquely crafted dishes served exclusively at the Omotesando Branch, such as the [Tenderloin Sandwich -Rossini Style-] (3,200 JPY), a culinary delight where the final finishes are prepared at the table for guests to witness.

If you are celebrating a special occasion, opt for the [Bouquet de carpaccio] (2,100 JPY). The salad is arranged like a bouquet, with the Japanese beef carpaccio presented as flowers. The dish is served with Caesar dressing made with an abundance of cheese.

The stylish and refined interior of the establishment fosters a comfortable atmosphere for the guests. Smoke-free grills serve to eliminate the typical yakiniku odors. Private rooms with dividing doors are available for those seeking more privacy.

Yakiniku USHIGORO Omotesando branch

Open: 5:00 pm - 11:30 pm
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 10,000 JPY
Access: 5-minute walk from the B2 Exit of Omotesando Station
Address: 2F, Urban Terrace Aoyama, 5-50-3, Jingumae, Shibuya-ku, Tokyo Map
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The golden leaves of the towering ginkgo trees set against the blue autumn sky paint a picture-perfect scenery! If you find yourself in Tokyo during the fall season, do take the time to enjoy a leisurely stroll beneath these majestic ginkgo trees and savor delectable meals along the way.

Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.

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