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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Koganei sharing quite a few of those!
Nestled amidst the glimmering suburbs of Tokyo, Koganei is a vibrant oasis that exudes a distinctive charm and allure.
From verdant parks that invite you to wander, to bustling shopping districts that pulse with energy, and restaurants that seduce your taste buds, there is something for everyone in this gem of a city.
So come, let us unveil the best things to do and see in Koganei, and let your senses be swept away on a whirlwind adventure of discovery and delight.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Koganei:
1. Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum
The Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum is an open-air museum showcasing traditional Japanese buildings from the Edo period (1603-1868) to the early Showa period (1926-1989).
What to see or do: Visitors can explore more than 30 buildings, including houses, shops, and public buildings, that have been relocated from various parts of Japan to the museum’s 7-hectare park.
Exhibits include traditional houses and warehouses, a bathhouse, a police box, and a bank.
Don’t miss: The museum’s main attraction is the reconstructed Nakajima-tei Residence, the former home of a wealthy merchant. Visitors can also experience the traditional Japanese tea ceremony in the tea house located in the park.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as the park is quite large and requires a lot of walking.
2. Ghibli Museum
The Ghibli Museum is a must-visit destination for fans of Japanese animation.
The museum features exhibits that showcase the work of the world-renowned Studio Ghibli, which produced beloved films like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the whimsical museum and enjoy the interactive exhibits that feature characters and scenes from Studio Ghibli films. You can watch short films exclusive to the museum, and see detailed production notes and sketches.
Don’t miss: The museum’s rooftop garden is a beautiful spot to relax and enjoy the outdoors while admiring the impressive architecture of the building.
Insider travel tips: Tickets need to be reserved in advance, so plan accordingly. Photography inside the museum is not allowed, except in designated areas.
Be sure to stop by the museum gift shop for unique Studio Ghibli souvenirs, including exclusive merchandise only available at the museum.
3. Inokashira Park
Inokashira Park is a picturesque public park located in Koganei, Tokyo, Japan.
It is one of the most popular parks in Tokyo and is famous for its beautiful cherry blossom trees, peaceful lake, and scenic walking paths.
What to see or do: Inokashira Park is the perfect destination for a relaxing day out in Tokyo.
The park boasts a wide variety of attractions including a beautiful lake where visitors can rent paddle boats, several walking trails, a zoo, and a botanical garden.
Don’t miss: One of the most popular attractions in Inokashira Park is the Ghibli Museum, a tribute to the famous Japanese animation studio.
The museum offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about the history of Japanese animation while exploring its many exhibits.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, visit the park during weekdays.
If you’re visiting during the cherry blossom season, get there early in the morning to secure a spot for a picnic under the trees.
Make sure to stop by the street vendors selling delicious local treats such as dango and taiyaki.
4. Koganei Park
Koganei Park is a vast public park located in Koganei, Tokyo.
What to see or do: The park is an ideal place for outdoor activities, such as biking, jogging, picnicking, and even enjoying a boat ride. There are also vast grassy lawns, Japanese gardens, sports facilities, and playgrounds.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, which showcases traditional Japanese buildings from the Edo period. The park also has a small zoo with various animals, including red pandas and capybaras.
Insider travel tips: Visit Koganei Park during the cherry blossom season, which is usually from late March to early April, for a stunning view of the blooming cherry trees.
Bring your own food and drinks for a picnic, as there are no shops or restaurants inside the park. Also, consider bringing insect repellent during summer months as mosquitoes can be prevalent.
5. Seikei University
Seikei University is a private university located in Koganei, Tokyo, Japan. Founded in 1912, it is one of the oldest Catholic universities in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a stroll around the campus to admire the beautiful Gothic-style buildings that have retained their original appearance.
The university also has a museum on campus called the Seikei Bunko Museum, which houses a collection of ancient Japanese and Chinese art.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the university’s chapel, which features stunning stained-glass windows depicting the life of Jesus Christ.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in attending cultural events, the university regularly hosts concerts and performances by its students and faculty. Check their website for schedules and ticket information.
6. Koganei Higashi Park
A peaceful urban park in the city of Koganei.
What to see or do: Take a stroll through the lush greenery, have a picnic with friends, or play sports on the various athletic fields available.
Don’t miss: The seasonal flower displays, including cherry blossoms in the spring and colorful foliage in the fall.
Insider travel tips: Arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds, bring a camera to capture the beautiful scenery, and don’t forget to try the local food stalls near the park entrance.
7. Edo-Tokyo Tatemono-en
Edo-Tokyo Tatemono-en is an open-air architectural museum situated in the city of Koganei, Tokyo.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore historical Japanese architecture of the Edo and Meiji periods, along with various traditional gardens. Over 30 preserved buildings can be viewed here, including merchant houses, samurai homes, bathhouses, and a kabuki theater.
Don’t miss: A highlight of the museum is the reconstruction of the Nakamura Tokichi Residence, a stunning building that belonged to a wealthy merchant during the Edo period.
Visitors can also watch a traditional Japanese dance performance or experience a tea ceremony.
Insider travel tips: – Wear comfortable shoes as the grounds are quite expansive.
8. Edo-Tokyo Musem
Edo-Tokyo Museum is a museum that showcases the history and culture of Tokyo from the Edo period to the present day.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore various exhibitions that demonstrate the daily life, architecture, fashion, art, and technology of the city throughout different ages.
Some of the most impressive exhibits include a replica of the Nihonbashi Bridge and an intricately detailed model of Edo Castle.
Don’t miss: The permanent exhibition of the museum is a must-see for history buffs and those interested in Japanese culture. Also, the museum’s unique design, resembling a futuristic spaceship, is striking from both the inside and outside.
Insider travel tips: On weekends, the museum offers free guided tours in English, which provide an in-depth explanation of the displays and artifacts.
Additionally, the nearby Edo- Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum is worth a visit for a glimpse into traditional Japanese homes and buildings.
9. Mitaka City Gallery Of Art
Mitaka City Gallery of Art is an art museum located in Koganei, Tokyo, Japan.
What to see or do: The museum hosts a variety of art exhibitions throughout the year, with a focus on contemporary art. Visitors can also enjoy the outdoor sculpture garden and the museum shop featuring unique souvenirs.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the gallery is the permanent collection of works by world-renowned artist Yayoi Kusama, including her iconic pumpkin sculptures.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan your visit accordingly.
10. Tamagawa Aqueduct Trail
Tamagawa Aqueduct Trail is a picturesque trail that follows the path of the historic Tamagawa Aqueduct through Koganei, a suburban city in Tokyo.
What to see or do: The trail offers a peaceful and scenic escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, as it winds through lush greenery and alongside the flowing water of the aqueduct.
Along the way, visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities such as walking, jogging, cycling, and picnicking.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions along the trail is the Takaido Rice Paddies, a tranquil and verdant marshland that provides a home for a variety of plant and animal species.
Visitors can also marvel at the graceful curves and arches of the aqueduct itself, which has been in use since the Meiji period.
Insider travel tips: Visit the trail during the autumn season when the leaves change color and the scenery is especially stunning. Also, be sure to bring a camera to capture the beauty of the surroundings.
To avoid crowding, it’s best to visit the trail during weekdays and early in the morning or late in the afternoon.
11. Mitaka City Park
A spacious park in Mitaka City, located next to the Musashino Forest Sport Plaza.
What to see or do: Enjoy a stroll through the lush greenery and take in the serene atmosphere. Visitors can also rent bicycles, participate in cherry blossom viewing (during spring), and visit the Children’s Animal Nature Zone.
Don’t miss: The Japanese Garden, which offers a peaceful respite from the bustling city and beautiful scenery throughout the year.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park during weekdays when it’s less crowded. Bring a picnic lunch to enjoy on the vast lawns.
The park also hosts various events throughout the year, including concerts and cultural festivals, so be sure to check the schedule in advance.
12. Musashino Hachimangu Shrine
Musashino Hachimangu Shrine is a Shinto shrine in Koganei City, Tokyo, considered one of the oldest and most revered shrines in Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the spacious grounds and marvel at the impressive architecture of the shrine’s main buildings, including the stunning Romon Gate and the Haiden and Honden buildings.
The shrine also features beautiful gardens and a museum with unique artifacts related to Japan’s ancient warrior culture.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to witness a traditional wedding or other ceremonial events at the shrine. These ceremonies offer a glimpse into Japan’s rich cultural traditions and are truly unforgettable experiences.
Insider travel tips: – For a truly enchanting experience, visit the shrine during the autumn months when the leaves turn golden and red, creating a picturesque scenery.
13. Musashino Central Park
Musashino Central Park is a sprawling green space located in the Koganei neighborhood of Tokyo.
What to see or do: Visitors can bike, hike, or run along the park’s many trails. There are also large playgrounds for children, as well as tennis and basketball courts for sports enthusiasts.
The park offers several ponds, streams, and wooded areas for birdwatching or simply taking in the natural scenery.
A popular attraction in the park is the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum, which features reconstructed and preserved buildings from the Edo period.
Don’t miss: The Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum is a must-see for those interested in Japanese history and architecture. The park also has a large outdoor event venue that hosts concerts, festivals, and other cultural events.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for the season, as the park requires a lot of walking. Visitors can rent bicycles from several locations within the park for a fun and convenient way to explore.
The park can get crowded during weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly.
Finally, be sure to bring snacks or a picnic lunch for a relaxing break in the park’s many beautiful picnic areas.
14. Tama Zoological Park
Tama Zoological Park is a popular zoo located in Koganei city, Tokyo. It spans across a vast area of 202 acres that houses a range of wild animals from around the world.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the different sections of the zoo, including the African savannah, the Asian Tropical Rainforest, and the Australian Outback.
You can see animals such as tigers, lions, orangutans, pandas, and various bird species.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of Tama Zoological Park is the “Walking Safari” experience, where visitors can walk past and observe various animals in their habitat.
Furthermore, the “Lion Bus” tour is a must-try where visitors can get up close to the lions and watch them feed.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to visit during weekday mornings to avoid the large crowds.