The park occupies the site where Motoo Otaguro, a pioneer of Western music in Japan, lived until his death in 1979.
The iconic row of ginkgo trees at the entrance was planted by Otaguro himself during his residence.
The garden layout intentionally utilizes 'shakkei' (borrowed scenery) to integrate the surrounding environment into the garden's depth.
The park includes a memorial hall that displays original furniture and music-related memorabilia from Otaguro's estate.
A specialized maintenance team regularly prunes the century-old pine trees to maintain their specific aesthetic silhouettes.
Otaguro Park is a traditional Japanese strolling garden established on the former residential estate of music critic Motoo Otaguro. The site features a central pond, a stream, and a diverse collection of trees including mature ginkgo, pine, and zelkova. A reconstructed tea house, the Otaguro Memorial Hall, serves as the central architectural focal point. The park maintains a distinct landscape design characterized by stone paths and carefully maintained shrubbery. It is located in the Suginami district of Tokyo, distinct from the Toshima city designation. The grounds are particularly noted for their autumn foliage and the illumination events held in late fall. The park serves as a green oasis maintained by Suginami City to preserve the historic atmosphere of the Ogikubo area.
The central stone bridge crossing the pond, offering a clear view of the tea house reflected in the water.
Visit during the late autumn evening illumination event to see the ginkgo trees lit up against the night sky.
Walk the perimeter path to observe the subtle changes in garden style from the formal entrance to the wilder, wooded rear.
Bring a book, as the park features several designated wooden benches specifically placed for quiet reflection.
Do not attempt to enter the memorial hall during private event closures, which occur periodically.
Closed on Mondays and during the end-of-year/New Year holidays.
No smoking, no littering, and maintain a quiet voice to preserve the park's tranquil environment.
