Inokashira Park (Musashino City, Tokyo)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Inokashira Park is a historic metropolitan park that straddles the cities of Musashino and Mitaka in Tokyo. Opened in 1917 (Taisho 6), it has long been a popular natural resting place close to the city center. With Inokashira Pond in the center of the park, as well as groves, grasslands, and promenades, its greatest appeal lies in the fact that visitors can enjoy the changing scenery throughout the seasons. It is a popular tourist destination for local residents, with activities such as boating, picnics, bird watching, and cherry blossom viewing popular.

Highlights

• Inokashira Pond (Boat Pond): Swan-shaped boats and rowboats are available for rent, allowing you to spend a relaxing time on the pond. Near the center of the pond is the charming Bentendo (Benzaiten) temple.
• Bentendo (Benzaiten): A shrine located on a small island in Inokashira Pond. Its reflection on the lake makes for a great photo spot.
• Inokashira Park Zoo (the zoo within Inokashira Park): A small facility where you can get up close and personal with small animals and birds. Popular with families.
• Cherry blossom trees: It gets especially crowded during the spring cherry blossom viewing season, but the rows of cherry blossom trees surrounding the pond are spectacular.
• Walking trails and woods: A walking course where you can experience nature in the city. Ideal for bird watching and photography.
• Nearby cafes and shopping streets (Kichijoji): Once you leave the park, you'll be in the bustling Kichijoji area, filled with unique cafes, restaurants, and places to eat and stroll around, such as Harmonica Yokocho.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station: South exit of Kichijoji Station on the JR Chuo Line and Keio Inokashira Line (about a 5-minute walk).
• Other stations: Accessible by bus or on foot from Mitaka Station on the JR Chuo Line (some distance).
• Tips for getting there by train: From the city center, it's just a short train ride on the JR Chuo Line (both rapid and local). The Keio Inokashira Line is convenient for access from Shibuya.
• Cars and parkingParking is limited within the park, so we recommend using nearby paid parking lots or public transportation.
• others: Many visitors arrive on foot, so please allow extra walking time from the station during busy times.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short walk: about 1 hour (walk around the pond and take photos)
• Leisurely sightseeing: 2-3 hours (either boat ride, Bentendo, or Natural and Cultural Gardens)
• Relaxing + Strolling Around the Area: Half a Day to a Full Day (Spend time relaxing in the park and exploring Kichijoji's cafes and shopping streets)
• Note: If you wish to visit the Studio Ghibli Museum, a separate time is required (advance reservations are required as admission is timed).

Nearby spots

• Around Kichijoji Station (Sunroad Shopping Street, Harmonica Yokocho, cafes in the shopping street)
• Ghibli Museum, Mitaka (advance reservation required)
• Inokashira Park Zoo (animal exhibits)
• Cultural facilities such as Kichijoji Museum and Gallery
• Restaurants and souvenir shops inside and outside Inokashira Park

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: It gets very crowded during cherry blossom season and on consecutive holidays (Golden Week, weekends). There may be queues for the boats, so please make sure you leave plenty of time.
• MannersPlease take your trash with you, smoke in designated areas, and be considerate to other visitors and wildlife. Please refrain from feeding the pond as it has an impact on the birds and ecosystem.
• Pets: Please keep your pet on a lead when walking and clean up any droppings yourself. Please follow the rules in the designated areas.
• bicycle: There may be restrictions on riding bicycles within the park. Please follow the signs and push your bicycle through the park.
• Facility opening hours and events: Each facility, such as the boats and the Natural and Cultural Gardens, has its own opening hours and closing days, so please check the official website for the latest information before visiting. The Ghibli Museum requires tickets with a designated date and time, and same-day tickets are generally not available.
• Seasonal precautions: From the rainy season to summer, you need to take measures against insects, mosquitoes, and heat. In winter, take measures against the cold. During cherry blossom season, be mindful of etiquette when reserving a spot.

We recommend checking the latest information (opening and closing times, events, construction information, etc.) on official websites and tourist guides before your visit. Please remember to be considerate of those around you so that you can have a pleasant experience.