Discovering Ninomaru Garden

Overlook

On our recent vacation to Tokyo, we set out to explore the Ninomaru Garden Trail, a charming 1.3-mile path nestled near the Imperial Palace. Known for its peaceful atmosphere and beautiful landscapes, this easy trail provided a wonderful escape from the city’s bustling energy. Surrounded by lush greenery, ponds, and stone pathways, we were excited to see what wildlife we might encounter in this historic garden setting.

Bridge

Birdlife by the Water

Tufted Ducks

The ponds in Ninomaru Garden were alive with activity, starting with the sight of a few Tufted Ducks gliding smoothly across the water’s surface. Their distinctive tufts and bright yellow eyes were easy to spot, adding a touch of charm to the stillness of the pond. As we stood watching, a Great Cormorant flew directly in front of us, skimming low over the water with powerful, rhythmic wingbeats. It was an impressive sight that caught both of us by surprise.

Great Cormorant

A Gathering of Waterfowl

Common Pochards

Continuing along the trail, we spotted a few Common Pochards swimming peacefully nearby, their reddish-brown heads and gray bodies blending well against the pond’s serene backdrop.

Gray Heron

A short distance away, a majestic Gray Heron stood motionless on a branch, its long neck and graceful stance making it look like a statue come to life. Nearby, a Mute Swan glided across the water with effortless elegance, adding to the garden’s tranquil vibe.

Mute Swan

A Flash of Color: The Azure-winged Magpie

Azure-winged Magpie

One of the highlights of our walk was spotting an Azure-winged Magpie. Its striking blue wings and long tail made it instantly recognizable, and it brought a bright flash of color as it moved among the branches. The magpie’s playful energy and eye-catching feathers were a delightful addition to our morning. Watching it dart around, we were reminded of Tokyo’s diverse wildlife, hiding in plain sight in the heart of the city.

Overlook

Friendly Varied Tits and a Japanese Tit

Varied Tit

As we moved deeper into the garden, we were treated to the sight of a group of Varied Tits hopping around in a lively flock. Their mix of orange, black, and white feathers made them stand out against the green foliage, and they seemed perfectly at ease as they foraged.

Gate

Not far off, a Japanese Tit appeared, adding its cheerful song to the soundscape of the garden. The vibrant variety of birds was a joyful reminder of the beauty and life that Ninomaru Garden has to offer.

Japanese Tit

Surprise Encounters and Quiet Moments

Oriental Turtle-Dove

Further along, we spotted an Oriental Turtle-Dove walking on the ground, its gentle cooing adding to the garden’s calm ambiance.

Large-billed Crow

A group of Large-billed Crows flew overhead, their bold calls echoing through the trees. We also had the pleasure of spotting a Little Grebe, its compact body diving smoothly beneath the water. Each sighting added a new layer of interest and excitement to our walk, making every turn feel special.

Little Grebe

Conclusion

Overlook

Our hike through the Ninomaru Garden Trail was a memorable experience, blending the tranquility of nature with Tokyo’s vibrant wildlife. The combination of diverse bird sightings and the peaceful setting of the Imperial Palace grounds made for an unforgettable morning. As we left the garden, we felt a sense of calm and gratitude for the opportunity to witness such natural beauty right in the heart of Tokyo. It was a perfect way to slow down, reconnect, and make memories in a city that never ceases to surprise us.

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