Yoyogi Park
About
Washington Heights – Japanese newspaper “THE SUN PHOTO TIMES (11 December 1947 issue)” published by Mainichi Newspapers Company.
Yoyogi Park or Yoyogi Koen is a huge park full of greenery that sits inside the concrete jungle of Tokyo. Many people flock to the park to enjoy everything from dancing to playing instruments or to just relax. You can enjoy some alone time on rainy days.
Nearby is the Yoyogi National Gymnasium designed by famed architect, Kenzo Tange.
History
Before WWII, the area used to be the training grounds for the Imperial Japanese Army. After the end of WWII, the area became a housing complex for the U.S. forces and was known as “Washington Heights”. After the decision was made to host the 1964 Olympics in Tokyo, the area was returned to Japan and converted to the main athletes village for the Olympics. The Yoyogi National Gymnasium was also constructed at this time. In 1967, most of the area was turned into Yoyogi Park.
Access
Yoyogi Park can be accessed from multiple stations since it covers a vast area.
Harajuku Station – 原宿駅
JR (Japan Railways)
Yamanote Line – 山手線
Meiji-jingumae ‘Harajuku’ Station – 明治神宮前（原宿）駅
Tokyo Metro – 東京メトロ
Chiyoda Line – 千代田線
Fukutoshin Line – 副都心線
Yoyogi Koen Station – 代々木公園駅
Tokyo Metro – 東京メトロ
Chiyoda Line – 千代田線