Yoyogi

Yoyogi is a district in Shibuya Ward, Tokyo, Japan. It lies to the western side of central Tokyo and adjoins Ha­rajuku and Shinjuku. The area is best known for Yoyogi Park and the Meiji Shrine precinct, which sit at the park’s northern edge, as well as the nearby Yoyogi National Gymnasium. The district blends residential neighborhoods with parks, shops, and cultural facilities, and is closely associated with the broader Harajuku–Shibuya area.

Yoyogi Park is one of Tokyo’s largest urban parks, covering about 54 hectares. Opened in the 1960s following preparations for the 1964 Summer Olympics, the park features wide lawns, tree-lined avenues, ponds, and forested areas. It is a popular site for recreation, picnics, jogging, and casual strolls, with space for weekend events and performances.

Meiji Shrine, or Meiji Jingu, is located within the Meiji Shrine precinct adjacent to Yoyogi Park. Established in 1920, the shrine is dedicated to Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken and is one of Japan’s most visited religious sites, hosting traditional ceremonies and New Year visits. The surrounding forested grounds provide a tranquil setting within the urban landscape.

Yoyogi National Gymnasium is a notable landmark near the park, designed by Kenzo Tange for the 1964 Olympics. Renowned for its suspended roof and distinctive architecture, the gymnasium continues to host sports events and cultural activities.

Transportation in Yoyogi centers on access to multiple rail and subway services, with nearby stations such as Yoyogi-Uehara and Meiji-jingumae (Harajuku) providing connections to broader Tokyo. The district’s location and amenities make it a transitional area between Shibuya’s commercial core and the western, quieter residential zones.