Kichijoji: A Day in the Park followed by the Fun of Cool standing Bars

Kichijoji Station

The Kichijoji area often tops Tokyo's most-desirable-place-to-live list, primarily because Inokashira Park is just minutes away from Kichijoji Station, and Shibuya and Shinjuku are both relatively close by. Head out here for a day of relaxing recreation on boats and under trees, followed by an evening of authentic Japanese food and drink as you tour the standing bars of Harmonica Yokocho Alley.

Explore Kichijoji

This west Tokyo neighborhood is popular with families and students for its cool shopping streets, cozy cafés and spacious parks. Head south to Inokashira Park or meander the narrow streets of stylish homewares and fashion boutiques on the north side of the station.

General TipsExplore the streets behind the Tokyu Department Store for ceramics, stationery and crafts
Stroll through Inokashira Park to the Ghibli Museum—but make sure you reserve tickets in advance
Visit the Temari no Ouchi cat cafe, one of the most fantastical, with a Ghibli-like interior and full meals

1) A fashionable life starts here
Kichijoji Station
Convenient to Shinjuku and Shibuya, the station is served by the Chuo Sobu Line, Chuo Line Rapid and the Keio Inokashira Line. Given the desirable location, it's no surprise the station houses a variety of fashionable stores, international cafés and organic grocery stores.
7 mins

2) A vast green playground

Inokashira Park
A popular spot for picnickers, families and couples, Inokashira Park surrounds a large pond that turns pink with cherry blossom petals in spring. Stroll the forest-like parklands, visit the red lacquered Benzaiten Shrine or rent a rowboat for a romantic afternoon.
5 mins

3) A storied zoo and aqua park
Inokashira Park Zoo
While the zoo is famous for its international animals (Hanako, Japan's first elephant once lived here), it also has a large collection of native animals, from squirrels and deer to monkeys and cranes, plus an aquarium. There's also a small museum dedicated to the sculptor Seibo Kitamura.
10 mins

4) A retro shopping experience
Kichijoji Sun Road shopping district
On the north side of the station, this shopping arcade retains its 1970s atmosphere. With everything from fashion and accessories to daily necessities, it's a great place to find a bargain. The arcade is covered, so it's convenient in all weathers.
1 min

5) Bar hopping with the locals
Harmonica Alley
Just off Kichijoji Sun Road, this atmospheric maze of lanes lit by paper lanterns, is a popular place for cheap eats and drinks. Though it started as a flea market after the war, you'll now find delicious local food and traditional sweets, though barhopping is the main attraction.

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