Nogawa Park: A photo guide

red spider lily

Located in western Tokyo is Nogawa Park. It is large and a little unusual as it started life as a golf course! Families love it. But, I wouldn’t exactly call it a must-see for photographers like the Edo-period parks in Tokyo. This one is seasonal. You go there for specific attractions, especially flowers.

Even though Nogawa is in the suburbs, a busy road cuts it in two, like Sarue-Onishi Park. On one side is the Nature Watching Center with its small garden. It draws nature lovers. There is also a firefly habit, which is something different.

The other side is more for families and people who want to do active things. It has kids’ play equipment, athletic tracks, tennis courts, and a kiosk. On summer weekends, people use it for picnics and BBQs. With its open spaces and forest, it is popular.

Summer can be a little bland, but late in the season, the spider lilies are worth photographing. Following that is autumn and Nogawa Park comes alive. It looks great when the leaves turn yellow and red.

Nogawa Park yellow autumn leaves

What can you photograph at Nogawa park?

Nogawa is known for its flowers and trees. Some of those you’ll find are:

  • Camphor
  • Cherry blossoms
  • Gerbera
  • Himalayan cedar
  • Japanese red pine
  • Maple
  • Konara oak
  • Spider Lillies
  • Zelkova
Nogawa Park trees

Are tripods/monopods allowed?

Not in the Nature Watching Center’s flower reserve. In other areas of the park, they are.

Other photo spots in the area

Nogawa Park autumn leaves

Where is Nogawa Park?

Address: 6-4-1 Osawa, Mitaka City, Tokyo

Here it is on a Google map:

Closest train stations:

Tama and Shin-Kogaeni which are on the Seibu Tamagawa Line. The park is about a 10-minute walk from both stations.

Opening hours

  • Never closed
  • Nature Watching Center – 9:30 am to 4:30 pm

Entry fees

None

Nogawa Park autumn lawn

Conclusion

As I mentioned earlier, Nogawa Park isn’t a must-see for photographers in Tokyo. But flower photographers are lucky. They will find it interesting if they can be there at the right time. Just check out what is in bloom before you go. 

You should check this park out if you’ve seen every other one in Tokyo. But first-time visitors to the city will find it easier to get to places like Shinjuku Gyoen and Yoyogi Park. Those two also have more on offer and are on the Yamanote Line. That makes getting to them easy.

Nogawa Park Red Spider Lily field

If you have any questions or comments, leave them below. And if you have been to Nogawa Park, let us know what you think of it. I’m looking forward to seeing it again.

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