Welcome to TOKYO FREE PARKS! This time, we’ll introduce SHINJUKU CHUO PARK or Shinjuku Central Park, an oasis that suddenly emerges in the lively heart of the city.
In the northern area of the park, a forest of tall zelkova trees provides a resting spot where visitors can enjoy forest bathing in the heart of the city.
Water Plaza
The Water Plaza faces the dramatic “Shinjuku Niagara Falls,” where you can experience splashing water sprays. The plaza hosts various events such as picnic lunches, Evening Bars, free markets, drawing a lively crowd.
On sunny days, you might catch a glimpse of the park’s famous turtles basking in the sun.
Kumano Shrine
You can also access the adjacent Kumano Shrine from the park, providing an opportunity to explore history and culture during your stroll.
Kids’ Play Area
In the western area of the park, there’s a Children’s Plaza where kids are excited to play with playground equipment. This area was renovated in 2022 to be inclusive, ensuring that everyone can enjoy the playground with a sense of security.
Big Slides
A symbol of the the Children’s Plaza is Big Slides; With two types of sliding lanes, you can choose between an exhilarating fast lane and a shorter, gentler one. Additionally, there’s a mini-bouldering wall for climbing.
Playground equipments
The ground beneath the play equipments is made of soft material, ensuring children can play safely.
Infant-Exclusive Play Area
A dedicated play area for infants aged 0 to 3 is highly popular, often filled with strollers. The area provides a safe and enjoyable space for even the youngest children to play.
The Children’s Plaza also has a baby rest area, convenient for breastfeeding and diaper changes (operating hours: 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM).
Additionally, numerous resting spaces with tables and chairs are available, attracting families who bring their lunches to enjoy in the park.
| Name | SHINJUKU CHUO PARK |
| Open | 24 hours |
| Address | 2-11 Nishi-Shinjuku, Shinjuku, Tokyo |
| Coming by Train | JR, Odakyu, Keio Lines approx. 10 minute-walk from West Exit, Shinjuku Station Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line approx. 5 minute-walk from Nishi-Shinjuku Station Toei Subway Oedo Line 1 minute-walk from A5 Exit, Tochomae Station |
| Coming by Bus | From Shinjuku Station, West Exit; Take bus Route 32, 33 or 51, and get off at “Juniso Ikeno-shita”. (Each route takes 4〜６min-ride. ) |
| Parking | × |
| Toilet | ○ Restrooms are available at six locations in the park. |
| Shop | There are many restaurants in the North area, and beverage vending machines are located many places in the park. |
| Playground Equipments | ○ Playground equipments are in the Children’s Plaza, called “Chibikko-Hiroba.” |
| Map | Map of the park (Source: Shinjuku Chuo Park official website) |
List of Hotels nearby
*Please check the status of each hotel on your own.
There’s no doubt that your time in Tokyo will be an enjoyable experience! Enjoy Tokyo, Enjoy Free Parks!
