Kokubunji Travel Guide

Explore Kokubunji with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the top attractions, best things to do, where to stay, what to eat, local culture and customs, safety tips, and much more.


Introduction to Kokubunji

Kokubunji is a city located in Tokyo Prefecture, in the Kanto region of Japan. It is situated in the western part of Tokyo, and it is known for its rich history, beautiful natural scenery, and cultural attractions.

Kokubunji has a lot to offer visitors, from stunning temples and shrines to parks and museums. It is also a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, thanks to its many hiking and biking trails.

Whether you are looking for adventure or relaxation, Kokubunji is a great destination to explore. In this travel guide, we will take a look at some of the top attractions and things to do in Kokubunji.

List of Places to Visit in Kokubunji

Here we have compiled a list of places you can visit and see on your trip to Kokubunji. We have categorized them based on their theme or relevance to Kokubunji:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

If you are interested in learning about the history and culture of Kokubunji, then make sure to visit the following museums and historical places:

  • Tonogayato Garden: This beautiful Japanese garden is located on the premises of the former residence of a wealthy merchant in the Edo period. It features a pond, a waterfall, and a teahouse.
  • Kokubunji Temple: This ancient Buddhist temple was founded in the 12th century and is believed to be one of the oldest temples in Tokyo. It features a five-story pagoda and a beautiful garden.
  • Fujimoto Silk Farm: This farm is located in a rural part of Kokubunji, and it has been producing silk for over 100 years. This is a great place to learn about the silk production process and buy some silk products.

Natural Attractions of Kokubunji: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

If you are a nature lover, then you will love the beautiful natural scenery of Kokubunji. Here are some of the top natural attractions in Kokubunji:

  • Tama Forest Science Garden: This botanical garden features over 1,200 varieties of trees and plants, as well as walking trails and a lake.
  • Shiofune Kannon-ji Temple: This temple is located on a hill and offers a beautiful view of the city. It also features a beautiful garden and a statue of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
  • Musashino Hachimangu Shrine: This Shinto shrine is dedicated to Hachiman, the god of war, and it is located in a beautiful wooded area. It features several torii gates and a large gate made of copper.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Kokubunji

Kokubunji is a perfect place for adventure enthusiasts as it offers numerous hiking and biking trails. Here are some of the best hiking and biking routes in Kokubunji:

  • Kokubunji to Takao Hiking Trail: This trail covers a distance of 14 km and offers beautiful views of Mount Takao and the surrounding areas.
  • Fujino-Sakaori Cycling Road: This cycling road spans 29 km and is perfect for a day trip. It offers great views of the mountains and the countryside.
  • Kokubunji Green Road: This 10 km-long trail is perfect for a leisurely bike ride. It runs along a former railway line and offers beautiful views of nature.

Best Things to Do in Kokubunji: Activities and Tours

Apart from hiking and biking, there are many other things that you can do in Kokubunji. Here are some of the top activities and tours you can enjoy in Kokubunji:

  • Visit Local Onsen: Kokubunji is home to several hot springs (onsen), where you can relax and rejuvenate your body and mind.
  • Try Your Hand at Pottery: There are several pottery studios in Kokubunji, where you can try your hand at making your own pottery.
  • Visit a Tea House: Kokubunji has several traditional tea houses, where you can enjoy a cup of green tea and some Japanese sweets.

Week-Long Itinerary for Kokubunji

Here is a suggested itinerary for spending a week in Kokubunji:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Kokubunji Temple and Tonogayato Garden
Day 2 Go hiking at Mount Takao or Musashino Forest
Day 3 Explore local museums, such as Fujimoto Silk Farm or Kokubunji Museum
Day 4 Take a day trip to Kawagoe, a nearby town known for its traditional buildings and streets
Day 5 Enjoy a leisurely day exploring local pottery studios or tea houses
Day 6 Go cycling on the Fujino-Sakaori Cycling Road
Day 7 Relax at a local onsen, such as Hinotani Onsen

Food and Drink Scene of Kokubunji

Kokubunji has a diverse food and drink scene, with many local specialties and traditional dishes. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Kokubunji Yakisoba: This is a popular noodle dish made with fried noodles, pork, and vegetables.
  • Tama Maki: This is a type of sushi roll made with tamagoyaki (Japanese omelet) and other ingredients.
  • Natto: This is a fermented soybean dish and is a popular breakfast food in Japan.

Local Beverages

  • Kokubunji Craft Beer: There are several craft breweries in Kokubunji, and they produce some of the best beer in the region.
  • Japanese Green Tea: Kokubunji has several tea houses, where you can enjoy a cup of traditional Japanese green tea.
  • Sake: Kokubunji is located near the town of Ome, which is famous for its sake breweries. Make sure to try some local sake while in Kokubunji!

Where to Stay in Kokubunji: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Kokubunji has plenty of accommodation options for visitors, from budget hostels to luxury hotels. Here are some of the best options:

  • Kokubunji Urban Hotel: This hotel is located near the Kokubunji Station and offers comfortable rooms and great amenities.
  • Ryokan Takemine: This traditional Japanese inn features tatami rooms and an onsen (hot spring).
  • Toyoko Inn Tokyo Kokubunji-eki Kita-guchi: This budget hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at a reasonable price.

What to Buy in Kokubunji: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Kokubunji is known for its silk production and pottery. Here are some souvenirs and local products that you should consider buying:

  • Silk Scarves and Kimonos: Kokubunji has several silk production facilities, where you can buy high-quality silk products such as scarves and kimonos.
  • Pottery: Kokubunji has several pottery studios, where you can buy beautiful pottery pieces and even make your own piece.
  • Green Tea: Kokubunji has several tea houses, where you can buy high-quality Japanese green tea.

Local Culture and Customs of Kokubunji

When visiting Kokubunji, there are several local customs and traditions that you should be aware of:

  • Remove Your Shoes: When entering someone’s home or a traditional Japanese inn, you are expected to remove your shoes.
  • Etiquette in the Onsen: In traditional Japanese hot springs (onsen), it is customary to bathe naked. Make sure to follow the rules and be respectful of other visitors.
  • Bow Greetings: In Japan, it is customary to bow when greeting someone. Make sure to bow slightly when greeting your host or any local you meet.

Best Time to Visit Kokubunji

The best time to visit Kokubunji is during the spring and autumn months (March to May and September to November), when the weather is mild and the foliage is beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Kokubunji

Do:

  • Plan ahead to make the most of your trip to Kokubunji.
  • Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
  • Try the local food and drinks.

Don’t:

  • Don’t litter or damage any natural or cultural attractions.
  • Don’t tip in restaurants or cafes.
  • Don’t be loud or disrespectful in public places.

Safety and Health

Safety in Kokubunji

Kokubunji is a safe place to visit, and crime rates are low. However, visitors should be aware of the following safety tips:

  • Be careful when crossing roads, as Japanese drivers may not always stop for pedestrians.
  • Watch out for bicycles, as they are a popular mode of transportation in Japan.
  • Keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas, such as train stations and tourist attractions.

Health in Kokubunji

Kokubunji has excellent health care facilities, and visitors can rely on high-quality medical treatment. However, visitors should be aware of the following health tips:

  • Always carry your health insurance card with you.
  • Be cautious when eating raw or undercooked foods.
  • Stay hydrated, especially during the summer months.

Getting to Kokubunji: Transportation Options and Logistics

Kokubunji is easily accessible from Tokyo and other nearby cities. Here are some transportation options and logistics to consider:

Airports Near Kokubunji

The closest airport to Kokubunji is Haneda Airport in Tokyo, which is located approximately 40 minutes away by train.

Bus Stations Near Kokubunji

Kokubunji has several bus stations, with buses connecting to nearby towns and cities. The most convenient bus station is Kokubunji Station.

Other Options

Visitors can also reach Kokubunji by train, with the Kokubunji Station being a major stop on the Chuo Line of the Tokyo Metro system.

How to Get Around in Kokubunji

Kokubunji is a walkable city, and many of the top attractions are located within walking distance of each other. For longer distances, visitors can use public transportation, such as buses or trains.

Where to Go Next from Kokubunji: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Kokubunji is located near several other great destinations that are worth visiting. Here are some of the nearby destinations and excursions you can consider:

  • Mount Takao: This mountain is located near Kokubunji and is a popular hiking destination. It offers beautiful views and stunning natural scenery.
  • Kawagoe: This nearby town is known for its traditional buildings and streets. It is a great place to experience traditional Japanese culture.
  • Tokyo: The capital city of Japan is just a short train ride away from Kokubunji.

Conclusion

Kokubunji is a beautiful and exciting travel destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you are interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, you will find plenty of things to do and see in this amazing city. We hope this travel guide has given you some inspiration for your trip to Kokubunji, and we wish you a wonderful journey!

Tonogayato Garden Tonogayato Garden Marui Marui