Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue

Interesting facts

1. 1

   The 146 ginkgo trees were planted in 1923 during the initial development of the Meiji Jingu Gaien complex.

2. 2

   The trees are carefully pruned each year in late spring to ensure they maintain their precise, uniform silhouette.

3. 3

   The avenue was designed by Yoshikazu Uchida, a renowned architect who also contributed to the design of the University of Tokyo's main campus.

4. 4

   The ginkgo trees were selected for the project specifically for their resistance to fire and urban pollution.

5. 5

   During the autumn festival, the road is typically closed to vehicular traffic to accommodate high pedestrian volume.

Overview

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.

Insider tips

• 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.