Exploring Yoyogi Park

Long-tailed Tit

During our recent vacation in Tokyo, we took a leisurely hike along the Yoyogi Park Trail, a beautiful 1.7-mile path nestled in one of Tokyo’s iconic green spaces. Known for its central location and relaxed atmosphere, Yoyogi Park offered us a delightful blend of nature and tranquility in the heart of the bustling city. The easy trail allowed us to take our time, and with clear skies and mild weather, we were ready for a day of sightseeing and birdwatching.

Torii Gate

A Haven for Birdwatchers

Varied Tit

To our delight, Yoyogi Park turned out to be a fantastic spot for birdwatching. The park’s mix of trees, ponds, and open spaces creates a perfect environment for a diverse range of bird species. Right from the start of our walk, we could hear birds singing all around us, creating a calming soundtrack for our adventure. We were both eager to see what bird species we might encounter along the way.

Trail View

A Flurry of Japanese Tits

Japanese Tit

One of the first birds we spotted was the Japanese Tit, a small, lively bird with a beautiful contrast of black, white, and pale yellow feathers. We saw several of them hopping among the branches, each one moving quickly from tree to tree. Their active foraging and soft chirps set a cheerful tone for the morning, and we enjoyed watching their playful movements.

The Adorable Long-tailed Tit

Long-tailed Tit

Not long after, we had the pleasure of spotting a Long-tailed Tit. Its tiny body and long, fluffy tail made it look especially charming as it flitted through the branches. This little bird, with its distinctive appearance and energetic personality, was an absolute highlight. We couldn’t help but smile as we watched it darting around, its small size giving it a surprisingly agile presence among the trees.

A Surprise Sighting: Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Eurasian Tree Sparrow

Further along the trail, we spotted an Eurasian Tree Sparrow perched quietly on a fence. Its chestnut-colored cap and black cheek patches made it easy to identify. Unlike the other birds, this little sparrow seemed content to stay in one spot, watching us as we passed by. It felt like a little moment of calm in the midst of all the activity, adding a peaceful pause to our walk.

Varied Tits and a Special Woodpecker

Varied Tit

As we moved through a denser section of the park, we were thrilled to come across a few Varied Tits with their striking orange, black, and white feathers. Their bright colors and busy movements brought vibrancy to the scene. Not far from them, we spotted a Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker—a small woodpecker with a soft brownish-gray plumage and a slightly striped appearance. Watching it peck away at the bark was a treat, especially since it’s a species we don’t often see.

Japanese Pygmy Woodpecker

A Graceful Gray Heron

Gray Heron

The trail eventually brought us to a pond area where we saw a Gray Heron standing still as a statue by the water's edge. Its tall, elegant form and muted gray feathers gave it a dignified look. The heron seemed completely at peace, observing its surroundings with calm patience. We watched quietly as it occasionally moved to reposition itself, adding a sense of calm and grace to our morning.

Pond

A Flash of Blue: Common Kingfisher

Common Kingfisher

As we continued along the trail, we were treated to an exciting sight—a Common Kingfisher! Its brilliant blue and orange plumage was breathtaking, especially when it perched near the water, scanning for fish. This bird’s vibrant colors and sleek appearance made it feel like a gem within the park, and we stood in awe, watching its every movement. Seeing the kingfisher was truly the perfect way to wrap up our birdwatching adventure.

Conclusion

Overlook

Our hike on the Yoyogi Park Trail turned out to be one of the highlights of our trip to Tokyo. The easy trail allowed us to fully appreciate the variety of bird species, and the beauty of Yoyogi Park provided a refreshing escape from the city’s energetic pace. From the flurry of Japanese Tits to the calm presence of the Gray Heron, each bird sighting made the experience richer. We left the park feeling grateful for the peaceful moments and the memories we made in Tokyo’s natural oasis.

Persimmon