Nakano Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, food, accommodations, culture, and more in Nakano, Tokyo. Plan your trip with our expert travel guide.


Introduction to Nakano

Located in the western part of Tokyo, Nakano is a vibrant and bustling district that attracts visitors with its unique blend of traditional and modern attractions. The area is known for its bustling entertainment scene, shopping opportunities, and historic landmarks. Nakano is also known for its easy access to Shinjuku and other popular destinations in Tokyo. With so much to offer, Nakano is a must-visit destination for travelers looking to explore an off-beat part of Tokyo.

List of Places to Visit in Nakano

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Nakano is home to several museums and historical landmarks that showcase Japan’s rich cultural heritage. The most popular attractions include:

  • Nakano Sun Plaza: an iconic concert hall that hosts a range of cultural performances, including classical music, theater, and dance.
  • Nakano Broadway: a popular shopping complex that specializes in anime and manga merchandise.
  • Nakano Shiki: a theater that stages various cultural performances, including Kabuki and Noh plays.
  • Nakano Zero: a gallery that showcases contemporary artworks from both Japanese and foreign artists.
  • Nakano Fujimidai Shrine: a Shinto shrine that dates back to the Edo period, known for its beautiful architecture and serene environment.

Natural Attractions of Nakano: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Nature lovers will find plenty to explore in Nakano, as the area is home to several parks and scenic spots. Some of the most popular natural attractions in Nakano include:

  • Nakano Central Park: a spacious public park that is perfect for picnics, strolling, and jogging.
  • Kashinomiya Green Area: a beautiful park that features a tranquil lake, walking trails, and plenty of picnic spots.
  • Nakano Momijiyama Garden: a traditional Japanese garden that is famous for its autumn foliage and serene environment.
  • Nakano Sakaue Kumin Park: a park that features a giant cherry tree, a colorful flower bed, and various sports facilities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Nakano

For adventurous travelers, Nakano offers plenty of opportunities to hike and bike through its scenic landscapes. Some of the most popular hiking and biking routes in Nakano include:

  • Nakano Ward Green Road: a 6.8 km long trail that runs from Nakano Station to Seibu Shinjuku Station, passing through several parks and green areas.
  • Nakano Jukai: a forested area that is perfect for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of Nakano.
  • Arakawa Cycling Road: a scenic route that runs along the Arakawa River, offering stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.
  • Nakano City Bicycle Plan: a network of cycling paths and parking facilities that make it easy for visitors to explore the area on two wheels.

Best Things to Do in Nakano: Activities and Tours

Nakano offers a wide range of activities and tours that cater to different interests and preferences. Some of the most popular things to do in Nakano include:

  • Joining a walking tour of Nakano and learning about the area’s history and culture.
  • Attending a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and experiencing the art of tea-making.
  • Participating in a sushi-making class and learning to make delicious sushi.
  • Visiting a local sake brewery and tasting some of the best sake in Japan.
  • Taking a cooking class and learning to prepare local dishes such as ramen and okonomiyaki.

Week-Long Itinerary for Nakano

Nakano can be easily explored in a week, with plenty of things to see and do. Here’s a sample itinerary for seven days in Nakano:

Day 1: Visit Nakano Broadway and explore its stores and anime shops. Day 2: Take a walking tour of Nakano and visit Nakano Sun Plaza, Nakano Fujimidai Shrine, and other cultural attractions. Day 3: Explore the parks and natural attractions of Nakano, such as Nakano Central Park and Kashinomiya Green Area. Day 4: Visit Nakano Shiki and watch a Kabuki or Noh performance. Day 5: Participate in a sushi-making class or visit a local sake brewery and taste some of the best sake in Japan. Day 6: Take a cooking class and learn to make local dishes such as ramen and okonomiyaki. Day 7: Spend the day biking along the Arakawa Cycling Road and enjoying the scenic views of Nakano.

Food and Drink Scene of Nakano

Nakano offers a diverse food and drink scene, with plenty of local specialties and international options. Here are some of the must-try dishes and local beverages in Nakano:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Ramen: Nakano is famous for its delicious ramen, a popular Japanese noodle soup that can be found in many local eateries.
  • Okonomiyaki: a savory pancake made with various ingredients such as flour, eggs, cabbage, and meat or seafood.
  • Takoyaki: small balls made of wheat flour batter filled with diced octopus, and served with toppings such as mayonnaise and bonito flakes.
  • Yakitori: skewered chicken that is grilled over charcoal and seasoned with salt or sauce.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: a traditional Japanese rice wine that is famous for its rich taste and aroma. Nakano is home to several sake breweries that offer tours and tastings.
  • Shochu: a distilled beverage that is made from a variety of ingredients, such as sweet potatoes, barley, or rice.
  • Craft beer: Nakano has several craft beer bars and breweries that offer a range of local and international brews.

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

Nakano offers a range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets and preferences. Some of the best places to stay in Nakano include:

  • Hotel Sun Members Tokyo Nakano-ku: a cozy hotel that offers comfortable rooms and easy access to Nakano Station.
  • Hostel HARUYA Nakano-Sakahane: a traditional Japanese hostel that features tatami rooms and communal facilities such as a kitchen and a lounge.
  • Hotel Kizankan: a budget-friendly hotel that offers clean and comfortable rooms, located near Nakano Broadway.

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

Nakano is known for its unique shopping opportunities, from anime merchandise to traditional crafts. Some of the best souvenirs and local products to buy in Nakano include:

  • Anime and manga merchandise: Nakano Broadway is a great place to find all kinds of anime and manga products, from figurines to posters.
  • Traditional crafts: Nakano has several shops that sell traditional Japanese crafts, such as pottery, textiles, and paper.
  • Local snacks: Nakano offers a range of local snacks and sweets, such as senbei (rice crackers), manju (steamed buns), and dorayaki (sweet pancakes filled with red bean paste).

Local Culture and Customs of Nakano

Nakano is a friendly and welcoming district, where visitors can experience the local culture and customs. Some of the most important aspects of Nakano’s culture include:

  • Respect for tradition: Nakano has several historic landmarks and cultural practices that are deeply rooted in Japanese tradition, such as tea ceremonies and Kabuki plays.
  • Love for anime: Nakano is famous for its anime and manga culture, which has become an integral part of the local identity.
  • Appreciation of nature: Nakano has several parks and natural attractions that are cherished by locals and visitors alike.

Best Time to Visit Nakano

The best time to visit Nakano is during the spring (March-April) or autumn (October-November), when the weather is mild and the landscapes are adorned with colorful foliage. However, Nakano can be visited year-round, and each season offers its own unique charm and attractions.

Do’s and Don’ts of Nakano

Do:

  • Try the local cuisine and beverages, such as ramen, sake, and craft beer.
  • Visit the museums and cultural landmarks to learn more about Nakano’s rich heritage.
  • Explore the parks and natural attractions, and enjoy the serene environment.
  • Shop for souvenirs and local products in Nakano Broadway and other popular shopping spots.

Don’t:

  • Be noisy or disruptive in public places, as this is considered impolite in Japanese culture.
  • Avoid taking pictures of people without their permission, especially in sensitive areas such as temples and shrines.
  • Don’t leave your trash or litter in public places, as cleanliness is highly valued in Japanese culture.

Safety and Health

Safety in Nakano

Nakano is a safe and secure district, with low crime rates and excellent public services. However, visitors should be aware of some safety tips, such as:

  • Watch out for pickpockets and be mindful of your belongings in crowded areas.
  • Observe traffic rules and be cautious when crossing the street or riding bicycles.
  • Be aware of the potential risk of earthquakes, and follow the instructions of local authorities in case of emergency.

Health in Nakano

Nakano has excellent healthcare facilities, with several hospitals and clinics that offer high-quality medical services. However, visitors should take some precautions to ensure their health and well-being, such as:

  • Drink safe and clean water, and avoid tap water if possible.
  • Protect yourself from mosquito bites, especially during the summer season.
  • Follow basic hygiene practices, such as washing your hands frequently and avoiding contact with sick people.

Getting to Nakano: Transportation Options and Logistics

Nakano is easily accessible by various modes of transportation, including:

Airports Near Nakano

  • Haneda Airport: located approximately 30 minutes away by train or taxi.
  • Narita Airport: located approximately 90 minutes away by train or taxi.

Bus Stations Near Nakano

  • Nakano Station Bus Terminal: located next to Nakano Station, offering bus services to various destinations in Tokyo and beyond.

Other Options

  • Train: Nakano Station is served by several train lines, including the JR Chuo Line, the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, and the Seibu Shinjuku Line.
  • Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Nakano, and can be hailed on the street or reserved in advance.

How to Get Around in Nakano

Nakano is an easy place to navigate, with several transportation options and a compact layout. Some of the best ways to get around in Nakano include:

  • Walking: Nakano is a walkable district, and many attractions are located within a short distance from each other.
  • Train: Nakano Station is served by several train lines that connect to other parts of Tokyo and beyond.
  • Bus: Nakano has several bus routes that offer convenient transportation to various attractions and destinations.
  • Bike: Biking is a great way to explore Nakano, especially along the Arakawa Cycling Road.

Where to Go Next from Nakano: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Nakano is located in a convenient location that makes it easy to explore other parts of Tokyo and beyond. Some of the best destinations to visit from Nakano include:

  • Shinjuku: located just one train stop away from Nakano, Shinjuku is a bustling district that offers a range of shopping, dining, and entertainment opportunities.
  • Harajuku: located approximately 20 minutes away by train, Harajuku is famous for its fashion culture and trendy boutiques.
  • Mount Takao: located approximately one hour away by train and bus, Mount Takao is a popular hiking spot that offers stunning views of the surrounding landscapes.

Conclusion

Nakano is a unique and fascinating district that offers something for everyone, from cultural attractions and outdoor adventures to shopping and dining opportunities. With its easy access to other parts of Tokyo and a range of accommodation options, Nakano is an ideal destination for travelers looking to explore an off-beat part of Japan’s capital city. Plan a trip to Nakano today and discover the best of Tokyo’s cultural heritage and natural beauty.