Meiji Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue: Peak Autumn Foliage & Crowd-Free Guide (2026)
Published: Nov 7, 2026
よくあるお悩み
- When is the best time to see the golden ginkgo trees at Meiji Jingu Gaien?
- How to avoid the heavy afternoon crowds and take clean photos?
- What are the easiest train stations to reach the avenue?
Stretching approximately 300 meters from Aoyama-dori to the Meiji Memorial Picture Gallery, this avenue of 146 ginkgo trees transforms into an awe-inspiring golden cathedral each autumn. It is widely considered Tokyo’s most iconic fall spectacle.
2026 Peak Season Forecast
The trees typically begin changing color in mid-November, reaching full golden saturation by late November through early December:
- Color Transition: Mid-November
- Peak Golden Tunnel: Around November 20 to December 5
- Golden Carpet (Fallen Leaves): Early to mid-December
The fallen leaves creating a natural yellow carpet in early December offer an equally spectacular view.
Pro Tip: Visit Early Morning (7:00 AM – 8:30 AM)
Between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM, the avenue becomes packed with locals and international travelers. For clear photos and tranquil morning strolls, arrive between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM. The gentle morning sunlight penetrating the canopy produces stunning reflections.
Access & Nearby Stations
- Aoyama-itchome Station (Tokyo Metro Ginza / Hanzomon Lines, Toei Oedo Line) - Exit 1, approx. 5 min walk.
- Kokuritsu-Kyogijo Station (Toei Oedo Line) - Approx. 10 min walk.
- SShinano-machi Station (JR Chuo-Sobu Line) - Approx. 10 min walk.
この記事の結論
- Peak viewing is from late November to early December.
- Visit between 7:00 AM and 8:30 AM for peaceful views and ideal lighting.
- Easy access from Aoyama-itchome Station on the Ginza/Hanzomon subway lines.