Oimachi Travel Guide

Plan your trip to Oimachi with this comprehensive travel guide. Discover the must-visit places, the best activities, food and drink scene, and local culture.


Introduction to Oimachi

Oimachi is a vibrant district situated in the southern part of Tokyo, Japan. It is neighbored by Shinagawa and Gotanda, and is easily accessible by train or bus. Featuring a mix of urban and rural landscapes, Oimachi is a perfect travel destination with its lively city scenes, picturesque natural surroundings, and cultural landmarks. Visitors can expect to experience the best of Japan’s culture and adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Oimachi

Exploring Oimachi offers a diverse range of attractions, from historically significant landmarks to outdoor activities, and everything in between. Here is a list of must-visit places you might want to consider adding to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Shinagawa History Museum - Offers a glimpse into the history and evolution of Shinagawa District, from its beginnings as a post town in Edo-era to its present-day modernization.

  • Seikyuji Temple - A Buddhist temple that houses ancient Buddhist relics, including Buddha statues and rare scriptures, and is surrounded by serene gardens.

  • Togoshi Hachiman Shrine - A Shinto shrine dedicated to Hachiman, the god of warriors and protectors. Togoshi Hachiman Shrine is known for its impressive torii gates, as well as the annual festivals that take place there.

Natural Attractions of Oimachi: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Oimachi Park - A public park featuring vast open spaces, tranquil ponds, and lush greenery, providing an ideal place for a leisurely stroll, picnic, or photo-taking.

  • Oimachi Ditch - A former waterway that now serves as a scenic cycling and walking path, winding through the countryside and allowing visitors to explore the natural beauty of Oimachi.

  • Tama River - An expansive river that flows through the outskirts of Oimachi, offering plenty of water activities such as canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Oimachi

Oimachi is the perfect destination for avid hikers and bikers since it features an array of hiking and cycling paths. The following are some recommended hiking and cycling routes:

  • Oimachi to Todoroki Valley Hike - A popular 3.5-kilometer trek through Todoroki Valley, which is renowned for its scenic natural beauty, including waterfalls and dense forest cover.

  • Oimachi to Arakawa Cycling Path - A cycling trail that stretches approximately nine kilometers along the Arakawa River. It provides an opportunity to enjoy picturesque views of the surrounding landscapes, topped with well-established resting places.

Best Things to Do in Oimachi: Activities and Tours

While in Oimachi, there are many things to do, from indoor activities to outdoor adventures. Here are some of the best activities to consider adding to your itinerary:

  • Tokyo Bay Cruise - Soak up stunning views of Tokyo Bay on a relaxing boat ride. Along the way, you’ll pass under the famous Rainbow Bridge.

  • Oimachi Food Tour - Oimachi is known for its food culture, with many local dishes to sample. Take a food tour to discover the district’s hidden culinary gems.

  • Hot Spring Experience - Relax and rejuvenate in a traditional Japanese hot spring, or “onsen.” Take your pick of onsens available throughout the district.

Week-Long Itinerary for Oimachi

Here’s a suggested itinerary of activities to conveniently pack the joie de vivre spirit of Oimachi into one week:

Day Activity
Day 1 Seikyuji Temple, then explore the district’s local shops and eateries
Day 2 Tokyo Bay Cruise, followed by a relaxing hot spring experience
Day 3 Visit the Shinagawa History Museum, and enjoy lunch in Oimachi Park
Day 4 Take a day trip to Todoroki Valley for the exhilarating hike and lush greenery
Day 5 Togoshi Hachiman Shrine, then a tasting tour of Oimachi’s must-try dishes
Day 6 Biking along the Arakawa River, then take a break for scenic picnicking at Oimachi Ditch
Day 7 Spend your last day shopping for unique souvenirs in Okuyamato-dori Shotengai

Food and Drink Scene of Oimachi

Oimachi is a food lover’s paradise, offering traditional Japanese cuisine alongside international dishes. Marvel at the extraordinary skills of chefs as they prepare the following dishes:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Sushi - Japan’s most famous dish, you can find sushi made with fresh, carefully selected fish and rice.

  • Okonomiyaki - A savory pancake filled with cabbage, pork belly, and a variety of other ingredients of your choice.

  • Yakitori - Grilled chicken skewers served with a variety of tasty sauces.

Local Beverages

  • Sake - Japan’s traditional alcoholic beverage that is made from fermented rice.

  • Matcha - A famous Japanese green tea, typically served at traditional events and ceremonies.

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

There are plenty of options to stay in Oimachi. It caters to all types of travelers, from luxury-seekers to budget-conscious explorers. Here are some recommendations:

  • Tokyo Bay Ariake Washington Hotel - A modern hotel with a prime location by the Tokyo Bay area, providing breathtaking views from its guest rooms. It’s located only two train stops away from Oimachi.

  • Tokyo Guest House Tennenge-Kan - An affordable guest house that offers spacious dormitories and private rooms, perfect for backpackers and group travelers.

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

Bring a bit of Oimachi home with you by picking up some souvenirs while you’re there. Here are some local products that make fantastic gifts:

  • Kamaboko - Fish cake made from whitefish that’s been beaten to a pulp, formed into logs and then cut into pieces.

  • Japanese Sweets - Yatsuhashi (cake made from glutinous rice) and Higashi (dry bean paste sweets) are considered representative Japanese sweets.

Local Culture and Customs of Oimachi

Oimachi’s culture and customs are fascinating, and understanding them can help you to have a better experience while exploring it. Here are some things to keep in mind:

  • Bow to Greet - When meeting someone, it is customary to bow slightly to show respect.

  • Take Off Your Shoes - In Japan, it is customary to remove shoes before entering a home, temple, or shrine.

  • Eating Habits - When eating or drinking, it is polite and customary in Japan to say “Itadakimasu” before beginning, and “Gochisousama deshita” after finishing the meal.

Best Time to Visit Oimachi

The best time to visit Oimachi is during the spring months between March and May, as the weather is mild, and you can witness the mesmerizing beauty of the cherry blossoms.

Do’s and Don’ts of Oimachi

To make your visit to Oimachi as enjoyable as possible, it’s essential to know the following do’s and don’ts:

Do:

  • Respect locals, customs, and traditions.

  • Take your shoes off when entering temples, shrines, and homes.

  • Carry cash, as many shops and restaurants do not accept credit cards.

Don’t:

  • Smoke while walking, as it’s considered impolite.

  • Eat or drink while walking.

  • Be loud or aggressive in public.

Safety and Health

Oimachi is very safe, and health concerns are minimal. However, these are some things to keep in mind:

Safety in Oimachi

  • There aren’t major safety concerns in Oimachi, but keep your belongings safe and secure.

  • Be aware of pickpockets, especially in crowded areas.

Health in Oimachi

  • Japan has a universal healthcare system, and medical facilities are of high quality.

  • Always carry your health insurance card or other forms of medical coverage.

Getting to Oimachi: Transportation Options and Logistics

Oimachi is easily accessible and well-connected to almost every part of Tokyo. Here are some transportation options to get to Oimachi:

Airports Near Oimachi

  • Haneda Airport - Located only 20 minutes away by train, Haneda Airport is the closest airport to Oimachi.

  • Narita Airport - Located about 80 km away from Oimachi, Narita Airport can be reached by train, taxi or bus.

Bus Stations Near Oimachi

  • Oimachi Bus Terminal - Accessible by Tokyo local buses through routes like the Gaiemmae-Oimachi route and there are buses from Haneda Airport.

Other Options

  • Train - Oimachi is easy to access by train, as it has two train stations (Oimachi Station and Oimachi Seaside Station), and is served by several subway lines.

  • Car Rental - Car rental services are available, but parking can be difficult to find and expensive.

How to Get Around in Oimachi

Getting around Oimachi is straightforward, as it has an efficient public transportation system. There are several options like trains, buses, and taxis. Visitors can also rent bikes to explore the districts’ scenic routes.

Where to Go Next from Oimachi: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Oimachi’s central location provides easy access to Tokyo’s nearby destinations and excursions. Here are some recommended places to visit:

  • Shinagawa - Oimachi’s neighboring district, known for its historical importance and commercial significance.

  • Odaiba - Besides shopping and having fun, Odaiba is popular for its amazing views of the Tokyo Bay and the bay’s famous Rainbow Bridge.

Conclusion

Oimachi is a hidden gem located in Tokyo, offering an exquisite exploration experience that is impossible to replicate elsewhere. The district’s unique combination of culture, nature, and adventure make it a perfect destination for travelers. Make sure to add some of these must-do activities to your itinerary and embrace the wonders of Oimachi.