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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Nishitokyo.
Nishitokyo, a city that blooms with cultural richness beyond compare.
A land that breathes tranquility and serenity, Nishitokyo has more to offer than what meets the eye.
Whether you’re strolling down the streets or wandering through the parks, this city presents an unforgettable experience that will leave you fulfilled and inspired.
Join us on a journey of exploration as we reveal the best things to do in Nishitokyo.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Nishitokyo:
1. Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum
Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum is an outdoor museum in Nishitokyo that features a collection of historic buildings from the Edo period (1603-1868) to the early Showa period (1926-1989) of Tokyo.
What to see or do: Visitors can wander through the museum and explore the intricacies of traditional Japanese architecture. You can see various authentic houses and buildings from different areas of Tokyo at different times in history.
Learn about the life of common people in the past and gain perspective on Japanese culture.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the museum is undoubtedly the Tokyo station Marunouchi building and the old townhouse of Kinokuniya Bunzaemon. These buildings are perfectly recreated and give an accurate representation of life during the Edo period.
Insider travel tips: Take a picnic and enjoy a leisurely afternoon in the scenic and peaceful museum.
2. Higashifushimi Inari Shrine
Higashifushimi Inari Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the Nishitokyo district of Tokyo, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the beautiful red torii gates that line the shrine’s walking paths, take in the stunning views of the city from the top of the hill, and participate in traditional Shinto rituals and ceremonies.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the opportunity to walk through the red torii gates that lead to the main shrine building and to the top of the hill, where you can take in breathtaking panoramic views of Tokyo.
Insider travel tips: To truly experience the serenity of the shrine, it’s best to visit early in the morning or during the weekday when there are less crowds.
Additionally, visitors should be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the walking paths can be steep in some areas.
3. Tamarokuto Science Center
The Tamarokuto Science Center is an interactive science museum located in Nishitokyo, Tokyo.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a variety of hands-on exhibits and displays, ranging from robotics to astronomy. The museum has a planetarium, a 3D theater, and a variety of different workshops and activities throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The planetarium show is a highlight of the Science Center experience. Visitors can immerse themselves in a stunning show that features the latest in audio-visual technology.
Insider travel tips: The Science Center is a popular destination for families with children, especially on weekends and holidays.
It’s a good idea to arrive early and plan your visit ahead of time, as some exhibits may have long lines.
Also, keep in mind that English language exhibits are limited, so brush up on your Japanese if you want to fully enjoy the experience.
4. Koganei Park
Koganei Park is a sprawling park in Nishitokyo, Tokyo with various attractions for visitors.
What to see or do: – Stroll through the Japanese garden with a large pond and colorful foliage.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the life-sized replica of the traditional kabuki theater and the reconstructed hanamachi (geisha district) as part of the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Architectural Museum.
Insider travel tips: – Plan to spend at least half a day at the park to fully enjoy all the attractions.
5. Ghibli Museum
Museum dedicated to the animated films of Studio Ghibli in Nishitokyo, Japan.
What to see or do: View original art, animated exhibits, and short films from the Studio Ghibli archives. Explore the unique and whimsical architecture of the museum, including a giant robot on the rooftop garden.
Don’t miss: The opportunity to view exclusive short films that can only be seen at the museum. The museum gift shop, featuring a variety of Studio Ghibli merchandise.
Insider travel tips: Tickets must be purchased in advance and are not available at the museum itself. Be sure to arrive on time as entry may be denied for latecomers.
Photography is not allowed inside the museum.
6. Showa Kinen Park
Showa Kinen Park is a spacious public park that covers an expanse of nearly 163 hectares in Nishitokyo, a western suburb of Tokyo.
What to see or do: The park offers a diverse range of recreational activities and tourist attractions. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to explore the vast meadows, landscaped gardens, and woodlands.
Showa Kinen Park boasts an impressive collection of over 1,000 cherry blossom trees that bloom in spring.
The park also features a water park, an open-air museum, and a boating lake that provides paddleboats and rowboats for rent.
Don’t miss: The Bonsai Museum, which houses a selection of exquisite miniature trees set against the stunning backdrop of a vivid red autumn maple.
There is also a Japanese garden that spans across two hectares and features a pond with ornamental carp, a tea-ceremony house, and a strolling path.
Insider travel tips: Visit Showa Kinen Park in autumn when the colors of the trees are particularly beautiful. Go early and bring a picnic to enjoy the serene surroundings.
Rent a bike to explore the park for a faster pace and cover more ground. Check the park’s website for seasonal events and exhibitions that are held throughout the year.
7. Kichijoji Shopping District
A lively and fashionable shopping district in the Nishitokyo area of Tokyo.
What to see or do: Shop until you drop for trendy clothing, accessories, cosmetics, and trinkets at various boutiques and department stores (such as Isetan and Marui), or head to the Sunroad shopping street for more affordable options.
You can also find unique local crafts and souvenirs at the Kichijoji Nakamichi Shopping Arcade.
When you need a break from shopping, check out the various cafes, bars, and restaurants for a bite to eat or a refreshing drink.
Don’t miss: The vibrant nightlife scene and the popular Inokashira Park, which is great for a picnic, cherry blossom viewing in spring, or renting a paddleboat on the lake.
Insider travel tips: Visit on a weekday to avoid the crowds, and be sure to explore the backstreets where you can stumble upon hidden gems and hole-in-the-wall shops.
Take the train to Kichijoji Station, which is conveniently located in the heart of the shopping district.
8. Shakujii Park
Shakujii Park is a sprawling urban oasis located in Nishitokyo, Tokyo.
What to see or do: The park offers a variety of activities for visitors, including cycling, fishing, bird watching, picnicking, and strolling along its many walking paths.
Kids can enjoy numerous playgrounds and water play areas, while adults can relax in the park’s many open spaces and gardens.
Don’t miss: One of the park’s main attractions is its large pond, where visitors can rent rowboats or pedal boats and enjoy the serene scenery.
Another highlight is the park’s observation tower, which offers panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Insider travel tips: If you’re visiting during cherry blossom season, be sure to check out the park’s many sakura trees, which bloom in a variety of hues.
A popular spot for locals, the park can get crowded on weekends and holidays, so consider visiting during the week if you prefer a quieter experience.
9. Mitaka City Gallery of Art
Mitaka City Gallery of Art is a contemporary art museum located in Nishitokyo, Tokyo.
What to see or do: The museum showcases a variety of contemporary art exhibitions throughout the year, including works by both Japanese and international artists. The exhibitions range from paintings and sculptures to video installations and photography.
Don’t miss: The permanent exhibitions include a collection of works by acclaimed Japanese artists such as Taro Okamoto and Yasuo Kazuki, as well as a collection of contemporary ceramics.
One of the highlights of the museum is the outdoor sculpture garden which features a variety of sculptures by Japanese and international artists.
Insider travel tips: The museum is located in a quiet residential area and can be reached by a 15-minute walk from Mitaka Station or by bus from the station.
The museum also offers a variety of art workshops and events throughout the year, so be sure to check their website for current schedules.
10. Nogawa Park
Nogawa Park is a popular urban park located in Nishitokyo City in Tokyo, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a pleasant stroll in the park and admire the scenic views of the Nogawa River.
The park also features a variety of recreational facilities, including a baseball field, a tennis court, a soccer ground, and a playground for kids.
Don’t miss: One of the park’s highlights is the beautiful cherry blossom trees that bloom during spring, attracting many visitors to have a picnic under its shaded areas.
Insider travel tips: – The park is an ideal spot for a relaxing break from the bustling city of Tokyo.
11. Nihon Minkaen
Nihon Minkaen is an open-air museum showcasing traditional Japanese homes from various regions.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the museum grounds and go inside various homes to immerse themselves in Japanese culture and architecture. The museum also features workshops and demonstrations of traditional crafts and skills such as weaving and pottery.
Don’t miss: The museum’s collection includes a variety of homes from different eras and regions of Japan, including a farmhouse from the Edo period and a samurai residence.
Make sure to visit each one to get a comprehensive view of traditional Japanese home styles.
Insider travel tips: If possible, plan your visit during one of the museum’s special events where you can participate in hands-on workshops and cultural activities.
Also, bring comfortable shoes as there is a lot of walking around the museum grounds.
12. Nishitokyo Citizen’s Forest
Nishitokyo Citizen’s Forest is a large park located in the Nishitokyo suburb of Tokyo.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy walking paths, cycling trails, picnic areas and numerous recreational facilities like a baseball field, tennis courts and a swimming pool.
The park also has a playground for children, a fitness center and a large pond.
Don’t miss: One of the highlights of the park is the Cherry Blossom Avenue, where visitors can see a stunning display of cherry blossom trees during spring.
Another must-see is the Japanese garden located near the park entrance.
Insider travel tips: – Nishitokyo Citizen’s Forest is a popular spot in the spring, so plan accordingly and arrive early to avoid the crowds.
13. Hikawa Shrine
Hikawa Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Nishitokyo, Tokyo. It is dedicated to the god of war and the arts.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the grounds and admire the beautiful architecture of the shrine’s buildings, including the main hall, worship hall, and torii gate.
The shrine also has several festivals throughout the year, such as the Setsubun Festival in February and the Autumn Festival in September.
Don’t miss: Make sure to check out the impressive monument of the god of war, which is said to weigh over 11 tons.
Visitors can also purchase amulets and charms at the shrine’s gift shop.
Insider travel tips: – The shrine can get crowded during festivals, so plan accordingly.
14. Fujimidai Park
Fujimidai Park is a beautiful urban park located in Nishitokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
What to see or do: – Take a leisurely stroll or jog on the park’s walking trails.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the annual Fujimidai Cherry Blossom Festival held in early April where hundreds of cherry blossom trees are in full bloom and the park celebrates with food vendors, music, and dancing.
Insider travel tips: – The park is easily accessible by train, a 5-minute walk from Fujimidai Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line.