An oasis of calm in the heart of metropolitan Tokyo

Established in 1949, The Institute for Nature Study (Shizen Kyōikuen) is a nature reserve set right in the heart of downtown Tokyo. Within a 20-hectare park, the Institute is home to 1,436 species of plant, 2,130 species of insect and 130 bird species. Its aim: to preserve the natural environment of Tokyo’s forests and marshlands. The grounds are used for research and education, although anyone may enjoy the park’s trails and natural beauty. Admission is limited to a few hundred people at a time, so that visitors can enjoy the turtle-filled ponds and forested hills in peace. 

“We at the Institute for Nature Study hope that this beautiful park will bring people in touch with nature, induce peace of mind in the presence of living things that change with the seasons, and inspire them to think about the relationship between people and nature.”

Ikimasho!

Shizen Kyōikuen is a ten-minute walk from Meguro Station on the JR Yamanote Line, Nanboku Subway Line (Tokyo Metro) and Mita Subway Line (Toei). It’s well signposted along the road. Open 9:00 to 17:00 (until 16:30 from September through April). Admission:310 yen.