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There are an array of things to do in Japan, with Tokorozawa sharing quite a few of those!
A hidden gem of Japan, the city of Tokorozawa is a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be discovered.
From soaring above the city on a hot air balloon to exploring breathtaking temples and shrines, Tokorozawa offers an enchanting blend of culture, nature, and adventure that promises to leave a lasting impression on travelers.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Tokorozawa:
1. Seibu-en Amusement Park
Seibu-en is an amusement park located in Tokorozawa, Saitama, Japan.
What to see or do: The park features a variety of rides such as roller coasters, ferris wheel, water rides, and a haunted house. Visitors can also enjoy carnival games, souvenir shops, and an outdoor pool during the summer months.
Don’t miss: The park’s iconic wooden roller coaster called “White Cyclone” which is one of the largest roller coasters in Asia. Another popular ride is the “Free Fall,” where visitors experience a sudden drop from the top of a tower.
Insider travel tips: Avoid visiting the park on weekends or holidays to avoid crowds. It is also recommended to purchase a “passport ticket” in advance, which includes admission and unlimited rides.
Visitors should also check the park’s website for events and special promotions that may be available during their visit.
2. Tokorozawa Aviation Memorial Park
A spacious park with aviation-themed exhibits and activities.
What to see or do: Visitors can check out real aircraft on display, such as the F-104 Starfighter and F-86 Sabre, as well as a flight simulator and a planetarium.
The park also features walking trails, picnic areas, and a playground for kids.
Don’t miss: The chance to take a ride on a miniature replica of the Wright Brothers’ Flyer.
It’s a unique experience that gives visitors a taste of what it was like to pioneer the skies over a century ago.
Insider travel tips: Bring a picnic lunch and relax in the park for the day. Consider visiting on a weekday if possible, as weekends can be crowded with families.
If you’re interested in aviation history, be sure to check out the small museum on site as well.
3. Tokorozawa Sakura Town
A newly-opened shopping and entertainment complex in Tokorozawa City, Japan, dedicated to all things anime and manga.
What to see or do: Explore the various shops offering anime and manga merchandise, visit the indoor amusement park featuring attractions based on popular anime titles, catch a movie at the cinema, and dine at the themed restaurants.
Don’t miss: The life-sized anime statues scattered around the complex, including characters from Gundam, Sailor Moon, and Dragon Ball Z. Also, make sure to check out the Gundam-themed cafe.
Insider travel tips: Weekdays are less crowded than weekends, so plan accordingly. Consider purchasing tickets online in advance to avoid waiting in line.
If you’re a fan of anime and manga, this is a must-visit destination.
4. Tokorozawa Hill Top Forest
Tokorozawa Hill Top Forest is a beautiful park located in Tokorozawa, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of activities at Tokorozawa Hill Top Forest, including hiking, picnicking, and birdwatching. The park has several trails that offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape, as well as a playground for children.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the chance to visit the park’s observation tower, which provides panoramic views of the area. The tower is especially beautiful during sunset, when the sky turns shades of orange and pink.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Tokorozawa Hill Top Forest is during the autumn season, when the leaves turn shades of red, orange, and yellow.
5. Tokorozawa City Museum
Tokorozawa City Museum is a local museum located in Tokorozawa, Saitama Prefecture in Japan.
What to see or do: The museum showcases the history, culture and geography of the city through various exhibits, including archaeological finds, artworks, photographs and documents.
It also holds special exhibitions and events throughout the year.
Don’t miss: The permanent exhibition titled “The History and Culture of Tokorozawa” is a must-see, as it presents a comprehensive overview of the city’s development from ancient times to the present day.
Visitors can also admire the beautiful calligraphy of Gyokudo Kawai, a renowned artist born in Tokorozawa.
Insider travel tips: – The museum is conveniently located near Tokorozawa Station and can be easily accessed by train.
6. Tokorozawa Shinmei Shrine
Tokorozawa Shinmei Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in the city of Tokorozawa in Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can stroll through the tranquil grounds of the shrine, admire the traditional Shinto architecture, and see the beautiful garden and pond.
Don’t miss: The annual Tokorozawa Shinmei Shrine Festival held in early November. During the festival, a procession of mikoshi (portable shrines) is carried around the shrine grounds.
Insider travel tips: Take a moment to participate in the ritual of cleansing your hands and mouth with water at the temizuya (purifying fountain) at the entrance of the shrine.
Additionally, there is a small flea market held on the shrine grounds on the 4th and 14th of every month.
7. Tokorozawa Jindai Jizou Ancient Tomb
Tokorozawa Jindai Jizou Ancient Tomb is a historical site in Japan that dates back to the 5th century.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the ancient tomb and learn about the history of the area. The site has been carefully preserved and restored, allowing visitors to experience the atmosphere of ancient Japan.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the intricate wall paintings inside the tomb, which depict scenes from everyday life in ancient Japan.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit is in the spring, when the surrounding area is filled with blooming cherry blossoms.
8. Tokyo Camii & Turkish Culture Center
The Tokyo Camii & Turkish Culture Center is a beautiful mosque and cultural center in the city of Tokorozawa, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the stunning architecture and design of the mosque, including the ornate domes and minarets. The center also offers cultural events and activities, such as Turkish language classes and traditional Turkish art exhibitions.
Don’t miss: Be sure to check out the peaceful gardens surrounding the mosque, which offer a quiet escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo.
Visitors can also enjoy some authentic Turkish cuisine at the on-site restaurant.
Insider travel tips: If you’re interested in learning more about Turkish culture, consider attending one of the regular cultural events or festivals hosted by the center.
It’s also recommended to dress conservatively out of respect for the religious and cultural significance of the site.
9. Sayama Ski Resort
Sayama Ski Resort is a ski resort in Tokorozawa, Japan, known for its family-friendly atmosphere and beginner-friendly slopes.
What to see or do: Visitors can hit the slopes at Sayama Ski Resort, which offers a variety of ski runs for beginners and intermediate skiers.
The resort also has a snow park for snowboarding, as well as a tubing hill and an ice skating rink. During the summer months, visitors can enjoy hiking and mountain biking in the surrounding area.
Don’t Miss: Don’t miss the chance to try out the snow park at Sayama Ski Resort, which features a variety of jumps, rails, and other obstacles for snowboarders to test their skills.
Insider travel tips: Consider visiting Sayama Ski Resort during the week, when there tend to be fewer crowds and shorter lift lines.
It’s also a good idea to bring your own food and drinks, as the on-site options can be limited and pricey.
Finally, be sure to dress appropriately for the cold weather and bring plenty of warm, waterproof gear, as the ski resort can get quite chilly.
10. Sayama Hills Sports Park
Sayama Hills Sports Park is a sports complex located in Tokorozawa, Saitama Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The park offers a variety of sports facilities including a baseball field, soccer field, tennis courts, a cycling track, and an athletic stadium.
Visitors can also enjoy jogging, picnicking, and walking along the scenic park trails.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the cycling track which features both an indoor track and an outdoor track. The outdoor track is used for professional cycling races and offers a thrilling experience for spectators.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit the park is in the spring when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
11. Kurosuke’s House from anime “My Neighbor Totoro”
Kurosuke’s House is a real-life house located in Tokorozawa, Japan, which inspired the famous anime “My Neighbor Totoro”. It is a popular tourist spot for fans of the movie to experience the charm of the fictional world.
What to see or do: Visitors can see the iconic blue and white house that resembles Kurosuke’s House from the movie. It has been perfectly preserved and enhanced to match the original movie set.
You can take a walk down the beautiful garden and see the pond just like in the movie. There is also a small museum inside the house with exhibits that display the making of the movie.
Don’t miss: Photo opportunities with the life-sized statues of Totoro, Satsuki, Mei, and the Cat Bus outside the house are a must. A visit to this house is incomplete without taking pictures with these iconic characters.
Insider travel tips: To avoid the crowds, plan on visiting early in the morning or on weekdays rather than weekends. The admission fee is reasonable, so book your tickets in advance and save some money.
Learn about the history of the house before you visit – it will make the experience even more meaningful. If it’s too hot, bring an umbrella or portable fan to keep yourself cool while exploring the house and garden.
12. Creative World of Mr
The Creative World of Mr. Tokorozawa is an art exhibition that showcases the unique and imaginative works of the Japanese artist, Tokorozawa.
What to see or do: Get ready to be amazed by the whimsical and colorful artwork, featuring intricate details and playful characters. Each piece tells a story and invites you into a world of fantasy and creativity.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the signature piece of the exhibition, a giant, multi-colored sculpture that brings to life the essence of Mr. Tokorozawa’s art.
Also, make sure to check out the interactive installation where visitors can create their own art inspired by the exhibition.
Insider travel tips: – Consider visiting during off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
13. Tove Jansson Akebono Children’s Forest Park
Tove Jansson Akebono Children’s Forest Park is a whimsical park located in Tokorozawa, Japan, inspired by the works of Finnish author and artist Tove Jansson.
What to see or do: Visitors can enjoy a range of activities in the park, including exploring the Moomin-themed playground, taking a scenic stroll through the forest, and admiring the charming sculptures dotted throughout.
Don’t miss: The park’s highlight is undoubtedly the Moominvalley area, which brings the beloved characters from Jansson’s stories to life through sculptures and interactive exhibits.
Insider travel tips: Don’t forget to bring a camera to capture the park’s atmosphere and be sure to check the weather before you go, as the park is largely outdoors.
If you’re traveling with kids, consider bringing a picnic and spending the day exploring all the park has to offer.
14. Tokorozawa Tsutsumi Farm
Tokorozawa Tsutsumi Farm is an agricultural park in Saitama Prefecture, Japan, that offers visitors a chance to experience farm life and taste fresh produce.
What to see or do:
Don’t miss:
Insider travel tips:
15. Tokorozawa Saburo Nogami Memorial Museum
A museum dedicated to Saburo Nogami, a notable figure in Japanese aviation history.
What to see or do: Visitors can see various exhibits showcasing Nogami’s life and achievements, including his roles as a pilot, engineer, and aviation executive.
Don’t miss: The museum’s collection of historic planes and artifacts, which includes several planes personally flown by Nogami.
Insider travel tips: Visitors interested in aviation history will find this museum to be an informative and interesting destination.
However, the museum’s exhibits are primarily in Japanese, so non-Japanese speakers may want to bring a translation tool or hire a guide to fully understand the displays.