Can you believe this exists in downton Shinjuku? In the spring, flowers, fruits, and berries add color to the landscape, but the green leaves and vines are enjoyable throughout the year.

Can you believe this exists in downton Shinjuku? In the spring, flowers, fruits, and berries add color to the landscape, but the green leaves and vines are enjoyable throughout the year. (Photo: Ran Matsumoto)

Shinjuku Marui Rooftop Garden

An unlikely oasis in one of the world's busiest cities

Ran Matsumoto Jul 08, 2013 - 1 min read

Can you believe this exists in downton Shinjuku? In the spring, flowers, fruits, and berries add color to the landscape, but the green leaves and vines are enjoyable throughout the year.

Behind the rose bushes (Old Rose, English Rose, and French Rose), Tokyo landmarks are visible against the sky.

Flowering vines decorate the arches and fences around the rooftop.

It's not just people -- stone cats also recline on the benches.

A small fountain and white roses lie at the center of a wooden round deck, surrounded by white clematis flowers.

People bring lunch, snacks, newspapers, and books to while the time away.

It's so quiet and peaceful, some people even doze off.

With streets crowded with shoppers, businessmen, and tourists, the downtown Shinjuku area is often overwhelming. When you need a break, the well-crafted English garden at the rooftop of Shinjuku Marui main building (honkan) offers a nice alternative to expensive cafes, and it also provides a great view for no cost at all.

Ran Matsumoto

Ran Matsumoto @ran.matsumoto

Originally from Tokyo, I now divide half my time between attending college in the U.S. and the other half in Japan. I'm excited about this opportunity to introduce interesting places in Japan to the English-speaking world!