The 146 ginkgo trees were planted in 1923 during the initial development of the Meiji Jingu Gaien complex.
The trees are carefully pruned each year in late spring to ensure they maintain their precise, uniform silhouette.
The avenue was designed by Yoshikazu Uchida, a renowned architect who also contributed to the design of the University of Tokyo's main campus.
The ginkgo trees were selected for the project specifically for their resistance to fire and urban pollution.
During the autumn festival, the road is typically closed to vehicular traffic to accommodate high pedestrian volume.
Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue is a formal landscape feature consisting of 146 ginkgo trees planted in four rows. The avenue leads directly toward the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery, creating a symmetrical architectural perspective. While part of a larger sports complex including a stadium and batting center, the avenue is the site's most recognizable natural landmark. The trees are pruned annually into a uniform conical shape to maintain a consistent aesthetic. During the autumn, the foliage creates a distinctive golden canopy over the road. The area serves as a primary urban green space within the Minato district. Despite being located in an urban core, the site functions as a pedestrian-friendly promenade during peak viewing seasons.
The center of the intersection at the base of the avenue, looking straight toward the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery.
Visit during the peak of autumn foliage to see the trees at their most vibrant, but expect significant crowding.
Bring a wide-angle lens if you intend to capture the full symmetrical depth of the tree rows.
Explore the side paths near the stadium to find less-crowded walking routes.
Do not attempt to walk in the middle of the street when the road is open to traffic.
The avenue is open year-round, though the Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Festival typically takes place in late November or early December.
