Musashino Travel Guide

Discover the best things to do, places to visit, where to stay, what to eat, and local culture in Musashino, Japan. Get insider tips on transportation, safety, and nearby excursions in this ultimate travel guide.


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Introduction to Musashino

Musashino is a delightful city located in the western portion of Tokyo Prefecture, Japan. Known for its beautiful parks, idyllic countryside and charming streets, it provides an authentic glimpse of Japanese culture and living. Offering a perfect blend of modernity and tradition, it is an alluring tourist destination that must be in your Japan itinerary.

List of Places to Visit in Musashino

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Musashino is home to several remarkable museums and historical sites that showcase its rich cultural heritage. The Edo-Tokyo Open-Air Architectural Museum features a collection of traditional Japanese structures that have been preserved or reconstructed. The Mitaka City Art Foundation offers an art gallery, studio space and cafe, and the Mitaka Municipal Gallery offers a variety of exhibitions of art and culture throughout the year.

Natural Attractions of Musashino: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Musashino is fortunate to have numerous parks and green spaces interspersed throughout the city, creating a natural refuge to escape the busy city life. Inokashira Park offers an enormous lake, rowboat rentals, and endless walking trails amongst cherry trees, while the Jindai Botanical Park has a collection of over 4,500 plant species in a tranquil, spacious setting.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Musashino

Musashino has several hiking and biking routes that are ideal for nature enthusiasts. The Tamagawa Josui Canal, located just outside Musashino, is a scenic area to explore on foot or by bike, rolling through the beautiful Edo period architecture along the way. The Tama River offers several opportunities for cycling or hiking, and Higashifuji Forest Park offers hiking trails that meander through a dense forest.

Best Things to Do in Musashino: Activities and Tours

Musashino offers numerous activities and tours for tourists to learn and experience the Japanese way of life. Take a sushi-making class at Sushi Academy, learn how to write Japanese calligraphy at a local workshop, or join a Japanese tea ceremony at the Ochanomizu Institute.

Week-Long Itinerary for Musashino

Day 1: Start in Kichi, a small district in Musashino, to taste some fantastic coffee at NY Coffee Club. Visit the popular Kichijoji temple and then take a walk around the charming Somewhat Tea Shop area.

Day 2: Start your day with a visit to the Hitotsubashi University Art Center, and then head over to the Edo-Tokyo Open Air Museum. Unwind at Koganei Park, a vast outdoor space with an aquatic centre, an outdoor swimming pool, and a bird sanctuary.

Day 3: Visit the famous Ghibli Museum, known for its kid-friendly exhibitions and displays. The museum is dedicated to Hayao Miyazaki’s anime studio and offers a cinema showing various films. Later, take a stroll around the Mitaka Art Museum.

Day 4: Enjoy a morning at the Fujimizaka park, and then walk around Kitafuku town to explore some local shops and restaurants. Make your way to the Ksizo Museum of Contemporary Art for a glimpse of the most innovative contemporary art in Japan.

Day 5: Explore the lush green spaces of Jindai Botanical Park and make a stop at the Jindaiji Temple. Continue your nature adventure in the Higashifuji Forest Park for a hiking expedition.

Day 6: Take a trip to Miyama Park, equipped with a mini dinosaur park, an aviary and a water fountain. Walk around Nakamichi Street for a glimpse of local art and handicrafts. Visit the Koishikawa Botanical Garden for rare plant species and a tour of its greenhouse.

Day 7: End your trip exploring some local delights at Kichijoji’s Harmonica Alley.

Food and Drink Scene of Musashino

Must-Try Dishes

Musashino is known for its excellent food offerings. You must try the fu-manju from Sakurai Takeshi-an and the Soft Cream at Sunflower. The Torirmen ramen at Tokyo’s limited noodle shop in Kichijoji is another favourite amongst locals.

Local Beverages

Musashino is known for its variety of sake and other alcoholic beverages. Visiting a local izakaya is an ideal way to experience the local brews. The neighbourhood also has several coffee shops that offer a unique blend and an ideal atmosphere to unwind.

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

Musashino has several options for comfortable accommodation. We recommend the Kichijoji Dai-ichi Hotel for its ideal location amidst the thriving cultural district. The Bamba Hotel is another option for better-priced yet luxurious accommodation. For a more budget-friendly alternative, Guesthouse Fuga offers a comfortable stay close to the train station.

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

Musashino offers several products that make unique souvenirs to take home. From vintage knick-knacks to traditional calligraphy brushes, pottery, and handicrafts, there is something for everyone. Visit the Mitaka City Flea Market on the third Sunday of each month, showcasing local, antique goods and collectables.

Local Culture and Customs of Musashino

Musashino is a culturally rich and diverse city that has retained its traditional Japanese atmosphere. The customs and traditions of Musashino reflect genuine politeness and respect for others. Visitors must carry around an electronic magazine called the “FreeWi-Fi Spot Map” and ensure that they follow the recycling and littering laws.

Best Time to Visit Musashino

The best time to visit Musashino is during the autumn season, from October to early December. The city transforms with beautiful autumn leaves, and the weather is mild, making it ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and cultural experiences.

Do’s and Don’ts of Musashino

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Greet people appropriately and use proper manners.
  • Carry a personal Wi-Fi hotspot device or look for free Wi-Fi spots.
  • Pack comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.

Don’t:

  • Ignore environmental rules and litter laws.
  • Smoke/talk on your phone while on public transport.
  • Get easily offended by language and cultural barriers.

Safety and Health

Safety in Musashino

Musashino is considered a safe city, but tourists must still maintain vigilance and take appropriate safety measures. Avoid walking alone at night and keep money and valuable belongings close to you in crowded areas. Keep updated with emergency information and carry a phone charger at all times.

Health in Musashino

Musashino is well-equipped with health facilities such as hospitals, clinics, and drug stores. It is recommended that tourists have travel insurance that covers the costs of health-related emergencies. It is advisable to purchase over-the-counter painkillers or medications for minor ailments from the nearest drugstore.

Getting to Musashino: Transportation Options and Logistics

Musashino is easily accessible via airport, train, bus and bicycle.

Airports Near Musashino

Narita and Haneda are the two main airports near Musashino. Visitors arriving at Narita can board the Narita Express train or limousine bus to Tokyo Station, and from there take a direct train to Musashino.

Bus Stations Near Musashino

Buses to Musashino are available from the central bus terminal at Tokyo station. Visitors can also take a direct bus from Shinjuku station that takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Musashino.

Other Transportation Options

Japan’s rail system is extensive, and Musashino has several rail stations that have fast and easy access to other cities. Taxis are available, but they are expensive in comparison to other transportation options. Visitors who prefer to ride bicycles can explore the city with over 45 rental cycles available across Musashino.

How to Get Around in Musashino

Musashi-Koganei, Nishi-Kokubunji, and Mitaka are the three lines that run through Musashino with direct access to Tokyo Station. The city has an excellent bus and train network that caters to local transportation. Taxis are available, but they are more expensive than other options. A leisurely bike ride is another ideal way to explore this picturesque Japanese city.

Where to Go Next from Musashino: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Musashino has several other exciting destinations and excursions nearby that are worth exploring. Kamakura, an ancient city with historic temples and beaches, is only a two-hour train ride away from Musashino. Kawagoe, with its preserved traditional architecture, is another excellent day trip. Shonan Beach, Enoshima Island, and the hot springs at Hakone are all ideal for a weekend trip.

Conclusion

From serene parks to museums, local culture to delicious food and several other attractions, Musashino offers something for every traveller. The city is a perfect blend of traditional and modern Japanese culture, offering an excellent opportunity to learn and experience Japan’s way of life. Follow this ultimate travel guide to experience Musashino in all its glory.

A flowering tree at Musashino University A flowering tree at Musashino University April streets April streets Hong Kong (a Chinese restaurant) Hong Kong (a Chinese restaurant)