Joining an e-bike garden tour in Tokyo this autumn? Here's what to wear and what to bring in October and November, from a guide who is also a professional gardener.

September is ending and the autumn rain season (akisame) has arrived in Tokyo. The air is soft and damp, and the mornings are finally cool. One of the questions we hear most often when guests book a tour is: "What happens if it rains?" It's one of the questions on our FAQ, and today I'd like to answer it in a bit more detail. Then, as a gardener, I'll share why a rainy day might be one of the best days to see a Japanese garden. This photo is from a rainy morning in early Sept

When people think of Tokyo, they often imagine skyscrapers and neon lights.　However many beautiful Japanese gardens from the Edo period can still be seen throughout the city. With tranquil ponds, carefully arranged stones, artificial hills, and seasonal flowers, these gardens reflect Japan's unique appreciation of nature and timeless aesthetic values. Here are five of Tokyo's finest Japanese gardens, carefully selected by a professional gardener and guide. 1. Koishikawa Kora

Japanese Koi (carp) in a shrine. Guests from Germany, with E-bikes. bikeTKgardens began in August 2025. These were our very first guests, and we would like to introduce the actual route they experienced. Starting from their hotel in Nishi-Shinjuku, the tour included: Kabukicho, Japan’s largest entertainment district Nukebenten and Itsukushima Shrine Koishikawa Korakuen Garden (with matcha and traditional Japanese sweets) Rinsho-in Temple Yushima Tenmangu Shrine Ending at Shin