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
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
IL LUPINO PRIME TOKYO (Omotesando / Italian)
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.
IL LUPINO PRIME TOKYO
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)
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.
Yakiniku USHIGORO Omotesando branch
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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