Kunitachi Travel Guide
Discover the beauty of Kunitachi, Tokyo, with our comprehensive travel guide. Explore historical landmarks, outdoor adventures, mouth-watering cuisine, and much more.
- Introduction to Kunitachi
- List of Places to Visit in Kunitachi
- Hiking/Biking Routes of Kunitachi
- Tama Hills Hiking Trail
- Tamagawa Cycling Road
- Best Things to Do in Kunitachi: Activities and Tours
- Tama River Boat Tours
- Local Food and Cooking Classes
- Week-Long Itinerary for Kunitachi
- Food and Drink Scene of Kunitachi
- Where to Stay in Kunitachi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
- What to Buy in Kunitachi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
- Kunitachi Pottery
- Local Culture and Customs of Kunitachi
- Best Time to Visit Kunitachi
- Do’s and Don’ts of Kunitachi
- Safety and Health
- Getting to Kunitachi: Transportation Options and Logistics
- How to Get Around in Kunitachi
- Where to Go Next from Kunitachi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
- Conclusion
Introduction to Kunitachi
Kunitachi is a small town located in the western part of Tokyo prefecture. The town is nestled between the Tama Hills and the Musashino Plateau, offering spectacular scenic views. Kunitachi is known for its laid-back atmosphere, friendly locals, and cultural significance. The town is home to several prestigious universities, making it a hub for students from all over Japan.
List of Places to Visit in Kunitachi
Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places
National Astronomical Observatory of Japan
The National Astronomical Observatory of Japan is the perfect place for astronomy enthusiasts. This research facility houses the world’s largest telescope, the Subaru Telescope, and offers stargazing events for visitors.
Kunitachi Fudōson Temple
Kunitachi Fudōson Temple is a Buddhist temple that dates back to the 8th century. The temple is known for its 2.6-meter tall Fudō Myō-ō statue, which is one of the largest stone statues in Japan.
Tama Art University Museum
The Tama Art University Museum is a contemporary art museum located on the campus of Tama Art University. The museum hosts several exhibitions and has an impressive collection of modern Japanese art.
Natural Attractions of Kunitachi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views
Tama Hills
The Tama Hills are a mountain range that offers fantastic trekking and hiking opportunities. The hills are easy to access from Kunitachi, and the views of the surrounding countryside are breathtaking.
Musashino Plateau
The Musashino Plateau is a vast plain that stretches across several towns in Tokyo Prefecture. The plateau has several walking trails, and visitors can rent bicycles to explore the area.
Hiking/Biking Routes of Kunitachi
Tama Hills Hiking Trail
The Tama Hills Hiking Trail is a popular trekking route that starts from the Tama Hills Recreation Area. The trail passes through dense forests, streams, and small waterfalls, providing a peaceful and refreshing escape from city life.
Tamagawa Cycling Road
The Tamagawa Cycling Road is a 24km-long cycling route that runs parallel to the Tamagawa River. The route passes through several towns, including Kunitachi, and has plenty of rest areas with picturesque views.
Best Things to Do in Kunitachi: Activities and Tours
Tama River Boat Tours
Tama River Boat Tours are a unique way to explore the beauty of Kunitachi’s surroundings. The tour takes visitors down the Tamagawa River, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
Local Food and Cooking Classes
Kunitachi is known for its delicious cuisine, and visitors can take cooking classes to learn how to prepare local dishes like Tonkatsu (crumbed pork cutlets) and Takikomi Gohan (Japanese mixed rice).
Week-Long Itinerary for Kunitachi
| Day | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| 1 | Visit Kunitachi Fudōson Temple and Tama Art University |
| 2 | Explore Musashino Plateau and Tamagawa Cycling Road |
| 3 | Trek the Tama Hills Hiking Trail |
| 4 | Take a Tama River Boat Tour |
| 5 | Attend a local food and cooking class |
| 6 | Visit the National Astronomical Observatory of Japan |
| 7 | Explore nearby towns and villages like Mitaka and Chofu |
Food and Drink Scene of Kunitachi
Must-Try Dishes
Tonkatsu
Tonkatsu is a local specialty that consists of a pork cutlet dipped in panko breadcrumbs and deep-fried until crispy. The dish is usually served with a side of shredded cabbage and a tangy sauce.
Takikomi Gohan
Takikomi Gohan is a dish made with Japanese mixed rice cooked with vegetables, seafood, and meat. The dish is flavorful and often served in special occasions.
Local Beverages
Sake
Sake is a Japanese rice wine that’s commonly served with meals. Kunitachi has several local breweries that produce high-quality sake, and visitors can take sake tasting tours to learn more about this traditional beverage.
Where to Stay in Kunitachi: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses
Kunitachi has several accommodation options ranging from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels. Some popular options include Kunitachi Hotel, Smile Hotel Tokyo Tama Center, and Capsule Inn Tamagawa.
What to Buy in Kunitachi: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home
Kunitachi Pottery
Kunitachi is known for its traditional pottery, particularly Nakazato Taroemon Kiln. Visitors can purchase handmade pottery at several shops in the town.
Local Culture and Customs of Kunitachi
Kunitachi has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its vibrant festivals and events throughout the year, such as Kunitachi Sakura Festival and Kunitachi Autumn Festival. Locals are typically warm and welcoming, and visitors are encouraged to respect local customs and etiquette.
Best Time to Visit Kunitachi
The best time to visit Kunitachi is from late March to early May, when the cherry blossoms bloom and the town is covered with pink petals. The autumn months of September and October are also ideal for visiting, with pleasant temperatures and colorful foliage.
Do’s and Don’ts of Kunitachi
Do:
- Take off your shoes before entering traditional Japanese establishments like temples and traditional restaurants.
- Respect local customs and traditions.
- Try local cuisine and beverages.
Don’t:
- Talk loudly or create a disturbance in public places.
- Ignore traffic laws or signs.
- Smoke or litter in public areas.
Safety and Health
Safety in Kunitachi
Kunitachi is a safe town, with low crime rates and a friendly community. Visitors should take standard precautions like carrying valuables with them and observing traffic laws.
Health in Kunitachi
Kunitachi has several hospitals and medical facilities that offer high-quality care. Visitors should have proper travel insurance and take basic precautions like washing hands regularly and staying hydrated.
Getting to Kunitachi: Transportation Options and Logistics
Airports Near Kunitachi
The closest airport to Kunitachi is Tokyo Haneda International Airport, which is approximately 40km away. Visitors can take a train or bus from the airport to reach Kunitachi.
Bus Stations Near Kunitachi
Kunitachi has several bus stations that connect the town to nearby destinations. Some popular bus stations include Kunitachi Station, Higashi-Kunitachi Station, and Kunitachi Civic Hall Station.
Other Options
Visitors can also reach Kunitachi by train, with the town being accessible via the JR Chuo Line and the Seibu Tamagawa Line.
How to Get Around in Kunitachi
Kunitachi is a relatively small town, and most attractions are easily accessible on foot or by bicycle. Visitors can also take buses or taxis to reach more distant places.
Where to Go Next from Kunitachi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions
Visitors can explore nearby towns and cities like Mitaka, Chofu, and Shinjuku. The Tama Hills and the Musashino Plateau offer several outdoor activities like trekking, hiking, and biking.
Conclusion
Kunitachi is a gem of a town that deserves to be on every Japan traveler’s itinerary. From its historical landmarks to its outdoor adventures and mouth-watering cuisine, Kunitachi has something to offer everyone. With this comprehensive travel guide, visitors can explore the beauty of this charming little town and create unforgettable memories.
