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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Mitaka.
Explore the hidden gems of Mitaka, a charming city that’s blossoming like a cherry tree in Spring.
From serene parks that offer a respite from the hustle and bustle of city life to vibrant streets lined with quirky shops that showcase the city’s artsy vibe, Mitaka has something for everyone.
So, come and uncover the secrets of this enchanting city that’s waiting to be discovered.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Mitaka:
1. Ghibli Museum
The Ghibli Museum is a museum in Mitaka, Tokyo, dedicated to the animation studio, Studio Ghibli, and its founders.
What to see or do: Visitors can view exhibits showcasing the process of animation, watch short films that are exclusive to the museum, and explore a recreated working studio.
There are also displays of original artwork, including sketches, storyboards, and character designs from popular Ghibli films such as My Neighbor Totoro, Spirited Away, and Princess Mononoke.
Don’t miss: The rooftop garden is a must-see spot with a giant robot statue that oversees the park and a merry-go-round that features characters from the movies.
It’s also fun to check out the Catbus from My Neighbor Totoro, a life-size version of the popular character that kids and adults alike can climb inside.
Insider travel tips: It’s advisable to purchase your tickets in advance, as they regularly get sold out. Photography is strictly prohibited inside the museum.
Visitors can purchase exclusive Ghibli merchandise at the museum shop, including DVDs, books, and unique souvenirs like handmade paper cutouts and character keychains.
The museum is open every day except Tuesday, and visitors are required to choose a specific entry time when purchasing their tickets.
2. Inokashira Park
A popular public park located in Mitaka, Tokyo.
What to see or do: Take a stroll or rent a rowboat along the picturesque Inokashira pond, visit the historic Benzaiten shrine, explore the tranquil Japanese garden, and check out the various food vendors and street performers.
Don’t miss: The cherry blossom season in spring, when the park is transformed into a beautiful pink wonderland.
Insider travel tips: Visit on a weekday to avoid the weekend crowds.
Bring a picnic to enjoy on the grassy areas by the pond, and don’t forget to try the local specialty, Inokashira soft serve ice cream.
3. Musashino Hachimangu Shrine
Musashino Hachimangu Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Mitaka, a suburban city in Western Tokyo.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the intricately designed temple grounds, witness traditional ceremonies and rituals, and take part in various seasonal festivals.
Don’t miss: Make sure to see the stunning wooden architecture that houses the shrine’s sacred artifacts, including a statue of the ancient Japanese god of war, Hachiman.
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4. Jindaiji Temple
Jindaiji Temple is a historic Buddhist temple located in Mitaka, Tokyo.
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5. Mitaka Forest Art Museum
The Mitaka Forest Art Museum is a contemporary art museum located in the lush greenery of Inokashira Park in the Mitaka neighborhood of Tokyo.
What to see or do: The museum is dedicated to exhibitions of contemporary art and design. The interior is stunning and features a curved wall of windows overlooking the park and a spacious central atrium.
Visitors can enjoy various exhibitions, installations, and events by international and Japanese artists.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the Yayoi Kusama exhibition space, which has permanent installations of her work specifically designed for the museum.
Insider travel tips: The Mitaka Forest Art Museum can get very busy on weekends and holidays, so consider visiting during the week to avoid large crowds.
The museum also offers a combination ticket with admission to the Ghibli Museum, which is a must-see for anime fans.
6. Mitaka Yonchome Shoutengai Shopping Street
Mitaka Yonchome Shoutengai Shopping Street is a bustling shopping arcade in the city of Mitaka, located in the western suburbs of Tokyo, Japan.
What to see or do: This shopping street boasts a wide variety of stores selling everything from fresh produce and Japanese snacks to clothing, electronics, and traditional crafts.
Visitors can stroll along the pedestrianized street, soaking in the atmosphere and browsing the wares on offer.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the street is the abundance of street food vendors selling delicious snacks such as steaming hot takoyaki (octopus balls), yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), and taiyaki (sweet fish-shaped cakes filled with red bean paste).
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting the area, be sure to stop by the nearby Ghibli Museum, dedicated to the works of Japanese animation studio Studio Ghibli.
The museum is located within walking distance of the shopping street and is a must-visit for fans of anime and Japanese pop culture.
7. Mitaka Historical Local Museum
A local museum located in Mitaka City, Tokyo, Japan that showcases the history and culture of the city.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the permanent exhibit which includes artifacts, photographs, and documents that illustrate the history of Mitaka City from its origins to modern times.
The museum also features temporary exhibits that showcase a variety of themes throughout the year.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the museum is the replica of the Mitaka no Mori train station from the early 20th century, where visitors can learn about the history of railways in Mitaka.
Another must-see is the display of archaeological finds from the Jomon period, which dates back over 10,000 years.
Insider travel tips: The museum offers a guidebook in English, Chinese, and Korean to help non-Japanese speakers navigate the exhibits.
It’s also worth visiting the museum’s garden, which features seasonal flowers and plants and is a peaceful spot to relax after exploring the exhibits.
8. Tamagawa Aqueduct Waterway
A historic aqueduct waterway located in Mitaka, Tokyo.
What to see or do: Take a stroll or bike ride along the scenic waterway, which stretches for 48 kilometers and passes through beautiful parks, gardens, and neighborhoods.
The waterway also offers great opportunities for fishing and boating.
Don’t miss: The stunning views of the cherry blossom trees during springtime and the colorful foliage of autumn. Make sure to also check out the aqueduct’s iconic red brick arches.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in cycling, rent a bike and take the Tamagawa Cycle Way that runs parallel to the waterway. For a unique and memorable experience, consider taking a boat tour along the aqueduct.
And don’t forget to try some of the delicious local food and snacks sold at the various parks and rest areas along the waterway.
9. Musashino Central Park
A large public park located in the city of Mitaka, Tokyo.
What to see or do: Musashino Central Park offers a range of activities and amenities including walking and jogging trails, cycling paths, cherry blossom viewing, bird watching, playgrounds, sports facilities, and a large pond where visitors can rent rowing boats.
Don’t miss: The beautiful Japanese garden, Shizen Kyoiku-en, located within the park. It features a traditional tea house, a waterfall, and a pond with koi fish.
Insider travel tips: Visit the park during the cherry blossom season (late March to early April) for a breathtaking experience. The park can also be crowded during weekends and holidays, so it’s best to visit during weekdays if possible.
Don’t forget to bring a picnic and enjoy a relaxing day in the great outdoors.
10. Tezukayama Ancient Tomb Park
Tezukayama Ancient Tomb Park is an archaeological park in Mitaka, Tokyo, featuring ancient Japanese burial mounds from the Kofun period (250-538 AD).
What to see or do: Visitors can explore a reconstructed tomb, visit a small museum with ancient artifacts, and walk around the park to see the various burial mounds.
Don’t miss: The reconstructed tomb provides a unique opportunity to experience the interior of an ancient burial mound and learn about the culture and beliefs of the people who built them.
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11. Mitaka Green Center
A greenhouse and garden center located in Mitaka, Tokyo.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful gardens and greenhouses filled with a variety of plants and flowers, including roses, orchids, and tropical plants.
The center also offers educational exhibits about the environment and horticulture.
Don’t miss: The magnificent rose garden with over 4,000 roses in full bloom during the spring and early summer months. Also, make sure to visit the tropical greenhouse with its exotic plants and colorful flowers.
Insider travel tips: Weekday mornings are the best time to visit if you want to avoid crowds. Consider bringing a picnic lunch to enjoy in the gardens.
Be sure to check the center’s website for special events and exhibitions throughout the year.
12. Kitazawa Hachimangu Shrine
Kitazawa Hachimangu Shrine is a traditional Shinto shrine located in Mitaka City, Tokyo.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning architecture of the shrine, which dates back to the 14th century. The main hall is especially impressive, featuring a unique curved roof.
Take a stroll through the surrounding forest and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the impressive torii gate at the entrance to the shrine. It is one of the largest wooden torii gates in the Kanto region and makes for a great photo opportunity.
Insider travel tips: – Visit during the annual Mitaka Festival in early October for a chance to see the shrine come to life with local music and dance performances.
13. Torius Shrine
Torius Shrine is a small Shinto shrine located in Mitaka City, Tokyo.
What to see or do: Visitors can take a stroll around the quaint shrine grounds, which feature a small pond with koi fish and a traditional garden.
The main shrine building is decorated with intricate wood carvings and a serene atmosphere.
Don’t miss: One of the unique features of Torius Shrine is the “cat shrine” located on the premises, where visitors can pay respects to cat deities and see adorable statues of various cat breeds.
Insider travel tips: If you visit the shrine in early February, you can witness the Setsubun festival where visitors gather to throw soybeans and drive out evil spirits.
Additionally, visitors can purchase ema (wooden plaques) to write their wishes and hang them up at the shrine for good luck.