As one of my favorite Tokyo seasonal events, I was thrilled to see the Rikugien Gardens autumn light-up return in 2022 after a multi-year pandemic hiatus. I chose to go on a weekday and was pleasantly surprised by the experience.
First, don’t go to Rikugien Gardens expecting the typical autumn photos you see online. It’s not like being in the mountains around Kyoto; there is no vast sea of vibrant red leaves. Instead, the park features pockets of carefully selected trees, skilfully lit to bring out their absolute best. The result is surreal and, in some areas, feels like something out of a fairy tale.
While the lighting is magical, be aware that the paths around the central pond can be quite dark, so be mindful of occasional dips and steps.
Here are two essential tips to make your visit go smoothly:
First and most importantly, go on a weekday. The difference is night and day. During my Thursday night visit, a couple of hundred people were spread out over the park, making it feel wonderfully empty. I could take my time and compose photos without pressure. In contrast, weekends can be so crowded that you constantly bump into people.
Second, book your tickets online in advance. Tickets are required for entry and are available on the official Rikugien Gardens website. Booking ahead will save you time and the potential hassle of trying to do it on your phone in the dark at the entrance.
For my fellow photographers, I used my Fujifilm XF 35mm f/2.0 lens, which performed well. Its wide aperture produced photos with lower noise, though I did occasionally wish for the flexibility of a zoom.
One crucial rule to know is that camera tripods are not allowed. I discovered this in previous years, and staff will ask you to put one away if they see it.
I hope you enjoy the pictures! If you’re planning your own autumn visit after dark, our guide, Rikugien Light-Up: 7 Insider Tips for a Magical Night, has more detail to help your visit go smoothly.
Rohan has lived in Tokyo for 30+ years. He loves photography and plans to capture the entire city.
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