Kiba Park in Photos
Kiba Park in Tokyo’s Koto Ward is another of the city’s little-known gems. If you need to run, exercise, or just enjoy some time in the sun, this park might be for you! In most regards, it is your everyday park. But, it is a good one for photographers. It has flowers and a massive bridge with a view of Tokyo Skytree.
The park is large, almost 60 acres, making it a little larger than Shinjuku Gyoen. A small river splits it down the middle, which makes it somewhat unique in Tokyo. Both sides are different.
The north side holds tennis courts, a general sports/event space, and a kid’s wading pool. Next door is the Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo. For me, this area lacks subjects for photography. To be honest, I don’t go there often. I spend most of my time in the south.
There is lots of open space, an information center, a dog run, and a cafe on the south side. It is a great place to picnic and is popular with locals. When its cherry blossoms bloom in spring, many people go there. There is another pool too. It is used to show the lumberman’s skills when logs, once floated in it.
The centerpiece is probably the bridge that joins both sides of the park. It is a modern design, offering great views of Tokyo Skytree. Even during the day, you can get some great shots of it, but nighttime photography is best. I can’t wait to get some pictures around sunset.
Kiba Park is very different from parks like Shinjuku Gyoen or Hamarikyu Gardens. Some use it for walks and jogging. Others come to enjoy the view and painting. Kids run around and play ball games in it! I’ve even seen people do tai chi there. You might even see events in the large, open spaces throughout the year.
A Brief History of the Kiba Park
- Are you wondering about the name Kiba? It means ‘wood place.’ The park was a lumberyard during the Edo era. That is something it shares with Sarue-Onishi.
- In 1977, Kiba Park became parkland to commemorate the fiftieth year of Emperor Hirohito’s reign.
- The park developed into its present form in 1992.
Why do photographers like Kiba Park?
- Cherry blossoms in spring.
- Flower photography at Greening Botanical Garden, a garden within the park. It is next to the picnic area.
- Kiba Koen Oohashi (Kiba Park Big Bridge).
- Kiba Park Urban Greening Botanical Garden.
- Museum of Contemporary Art Tokyo (well, out of the park, but so close!).
- Tokyo Skytree is near.
When to visit Kiba Park?
Without a doubt, spring! The park has many flowers, including cherry blossoms, so this is the best time to go.
Where is Kiba Park?
Address: 4 Chome-6-1 Hirano, Koto City, Tokyo
Here it is on a Google map:
Opening hours:
It is open 24 hours a day.
Admission fees:
None but you have to pay for its facilities (such as the tennis courts).
Conclusion
Kiba Park might be far for many people, as it is in Tokyo’s east. But, as it has so much to offer, especially in spring, it could be worth the effort for many photographers. It is another great Tokyo photo spot.
Rohan Gillett
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
More park articles you might enjoy:
External related websites:
- Kiba Park (official website)
2 thoughts on “Kiba Park in Photos”
Kiba park was the backbone of our 3.5 years in Tokyo. We visited it almost 5 days a week and during the pandemic it was the playground for my kids, my remote office during the day and a nice place to meet friends. Thank you for featuring this park. Brings back great memories.
Hello Hansel. Thanks for dropping by and your kind comment. Kiba is a great park. It’s a pity it’s on the opposite side of the city to me, else I’d go there more often. But the cherry blossoms are almost with us again, so I will have new photos to share here. Please come back again then!