“Memorial park dedicated to Dr. José Rizal, the national hero Features beautiful fountains, gardens, and open lawns Marks the “Kilometer Zero” point of the Philippines A favorite spot for families and tourists alike Close to Intramuros and Manila Ocean Park”
Rizal Park, formerly known as “Luneta Park,” is one of the oldest and most important public parks in the Philippines. Covering approximately 58 hectares, it is strategically located at the northern end of Roxas Boulevard, directly facing Manila Bay.
The park was established to commemorate Dr. José Rizal, the national hero who was executed on this site (then known as Bagumbayan Field) in 1896—an event that ignited the Filipino revolution and symbolized the nation's struggle for freedom.
At the center stands the magnificent Rizal Monument, which houses Rizal's actual remains. It is perpetually guarded by ceremonial soldiers known as the Kawal ng Kalayaan (Knights of Freedom). It is a revered national landmark where Filipinos and tourists come to pay respect and take photographs.
Furthermore, Rizal Park is designated as "Kilometer Zero" (KM 0), the official reference point from which all road distances in the entire Philippines are measured. This point is marked by a marble plaque near the monument.
The park features specialized attractions, including the tranquil Japanese Garden, the ornate Chinese Garden, and the National Museum Complex (including the National Museum of Fine Arts). Surrounding the monument are fountains and landscaped gardens that often host national celebrations, and daily, highly ritualistic flag-raising and flag-lowering ceremonies reinforce its role as a sacred site of national memory.
Beyond its historical value, Rizal Park serves as a crucial relaxing green space in busy Manila—a place where locals come for leisure, family picnics, and quiet reflection.
How to Get There
- Accessible via taxi, jeepney, or LRT. Take the LRT Line 1 and get off at United Nations (UN) Station; the park is just a 5-minute walk from there, along Roxas Boulevard.
Travel Tips
- Visit in the early morning or late afternoon for cooler weather and better lighting for photos. Avoid walking alone deep into the park at night.
Admission Fee
- Free entrance
Rizal Museum and selected areas:
- Adults: Around 75 PHP
- Children: Around 50 PHP
- Foreign visitors: Around 100 PHP
Opening Hours
- Open daily: 05:00 – 21:00