Many of Tokyo neighborhoods drop off from travel guides, as there are tens of major spots to see in Tokyo. But for the 2nd or 3rd time visitos, it might be interesting to explreo somewhere more with local people gather, and shops and restauratns are running locally. On your next trip to Tokyo, how about blending in locals and see the different parts of Tokyo.
Today, let’s walk Kichijoji. It’s definitely not an off the beaten path, it’s a vibrant town that can be very busy on the weekend, but still it’s not a common place to visit among international travelers except the Ghibli museum.
Map of Kichijoji
You can walk Kichijoji with this map. In case you don’t have Internet in Japan, try public WiFI or prepare here.
Where to Explore
Harmonica Yokocho
Narrow alleys right in front of north exit of Kichijoji station. It used to be a black market after the War, and not it’s a fun alley with many bars and shops in a small area. This place might be fun to come back for drink in the evening.
Inokashira Park
A major park located in the south of Kichijoji station. The iconic pond in the center is the origin of Kanda river that goes across Tokyo city center and flows into Sumida river. You can enjoy the walk, relaxed on the bench, or enjoy boat riding.
Inokashira Zoo
A small zoo inside the park has some small and charming animals. In addition, you can see the sculptures in the atrier and garden. The artist is Kitamura Seibo, who made the big statue in Peace Park in Nagasaki.
Musashino Hachimangu Shrine
A quiet and small shrine located in a few minutes from Tokyu Department store. Good break from the city.
Where to Take a Rest
Restaurants and Coffee Shops
Tiny Ponta Coffee : A small coffee shops that sells original coffee beans. The seat area is small in front of the counter, but on they sunny day, you can go to the rooftop and enjou your coffee on bench, as you overlook the streets of Kichijoji. Be aware of very tiny route to the roof top!
Cafe Arg : I’m so glad I found this coffee shop on the way to Inokashira park. It was located a little off the main street connecting the park and the station. Interior is classic style with many colleciton of tea cups and glasses, that I can feel the owners sense. On the otherhand, outside seat looked nice in Spring or Autumn, and even summer evening for a drink.
The cake set (tea with a plenty of refill in a pot and a cake) 1200 Yen was a great choice for the afternoon walk.
Explore Kichijoji
You can check the vibe of the town on YouTube.
Hotels in Kichijoji
It’s not a popular area to stay, but you can find some hotels if you prefer to be in the off the major spots.
Budget
Kichijoji Tokyu REI Hotel is a premium business hotel that are located right in front of Kichojiji station. Not only convenient for walking around the town of Kichijoji and Inokashira Park, you can take JR Chuo line or Keio Inokachira Line quickly and head to city center of Tokyo such as Shinjuku and Shibuya in 20 minutes.
Mid-range
Excel Hotel Tokyu is a larger sized hotel in the center of Kichijoji town.
If you go one or two statoin away from Kichijoji, you find some more business hotels.
Final Thoughts: Why visit Kichijoji ?
Kichijoji is one of Tokyo’s rare neighborhoods where you can enjoy a park, stroll shopping streets and small alleys, and relax with great coffee—all in a few hours.
It’s a slower pace of Tokyo, perfect for a second or third visit to the city. If you’re looking for a side trip that feels both local and refreshing, this is a great place to explore. The tips is to visit on weekdays, as it can be busy on weekend mainly with Japanese visitors.
Check the Google My Map to follow the exact route I took in the video, and watch the full YouTube vlog for the real experience.
To stroll as you watch the map, you can consider eSIM or Pocket WiFi options, as long as your phone career’s International plans if it’s offered. The eSIM guide for Japan : eSIM vs Pocket WiFi for Japan Travel
