Chofu travel guide and discussion

It's been over a month since we moved back to Tokyo from London. The highlight of last week was getting my daughter ready for university—the start of an exciting new chapter in her life! We explored the lively nearby city of Chofu. Just a 17-minute ride from Shinjuku on the Keio Line Special Express, this city of 240,000 offers a wonderful mix of lush greenery, historic temples, and a relaxed suburban vibe. ▶️ Our Recommended Walking Route 📍 Kitaro Street A true local cultural icon. The legendary manga artist Shigeru Mizuki lived and worked in Chofu for many years. Right by the station is Tenjin-dori, a famous themed street where you can spot characters like Kitaro, Nezumi-otoko, and Neko-musume. There's also the Kitaro Chaya, selling all sorts of fun anime souvenirs. 📍 Fuda Tenjin Shrine Continuing down the anime street leads to this shrine with over a thousand years of history. It enshrines Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of scholarship. It’s a tradition for students and their families to come here to pray for academic success and exam results. 📍 Jindaiji Temple The quintessential Chofu landmark. Founded in 733 AD, the area is still surrounded by dense forests and natural springs. The temple's bronze Shakyamuni Buddha is a designated National Treasure of Japan. In front of the temple is a charming old street filled with tea houses and local treats—you'll see many young women snapping photos with cute desserts. You can also enjoy the famous Jindaiji Soba noodles here. It’s a perfect walking route that blends anime culture, ancient temples, and delicious local food.

#footballmatchcityguide 🔵🔴 🇯🇵 Tokyo – Japan's Ultimate Football Match City Guide ⚽🏙️ Tokyo is one of Asia's most exciting destinations for football fans. Home to modern stadiums, passionate supporters, and the world-famous J.League, the city combines world-class football with Japanese culture, technology, and unforgettable travel experiences. Whether you're watching a live match at the Japan National Stadium, cheering for FC Tokyo, or enjoying football in lively sports bars, Tokyo offers an incredible atmosphere for every football lover. 🌟 Why Visit Tokyo for Football? 🏟️ Modern world-class stadiums ⚽ Home of exciting J.League matches 🇯🇵 Passionate and respectful football fans 🚇 Excellent public transport network 🍣 Amazing Japanese food and nightlife 📸 Perfect mix of football, culture, and sightseeing 🏟️ Top Football Stadiums 🏆 Japan National Stadium ⚽ Ajinomoto Stadium (FC Tokyo & Tokyo Verdy) 🏟️ Nissan Stadium (Yokohama – near Tokyo) 🚆 How to Get Around 🚇 Tokyo Metro & Toei Subway 🚅 JR Yamanote Line & Shinkansen 🚌 City buses and airport limousine buses 🚖 Taxis and ride-hailing services 💳 Suica & PASMO cards make travel easy 🍜 Must-Try Japanese Food 🍣 Sushi 🍜 Ramen 🍢 Yakitori 🐙 Takoyaki 🥟 Gyoza 🍛 Japanese Curry 🍵 Matcha Desserts 📍 Top Attractions 🗼 Tokyo Tower 🗼 Tokyo Skytree ⛩️ Senso-ji Temple 🚦 Shibuya Crossing 🎮 Akihabara Electric Town 🌸 Ueno Park 📅 Best Time to Visit 🌸 March–May – Cherry blossom season and pleasant weather. 🍁 September–November – Comfortable temperatures and the heart of the football season. Tokyo offers much more than football—it's a city where cutting-edge technology, rich traditions, incredible food, and unforgettable match-day experiences come together. Every football fan should visit Tokyo at least once. Feel the Passion. Experience Japan. Live the Game! 🇯🇵⚽ #tokyo #japan #jleague #football #footballtravel #japannationalstadium #visitjapan #tokyotravel #sportstourism #footballfans #traveljapan #worldfootball #surmaiduniya #travel2026

In the evening, Jindaiji Temple is A bit less crowded than during the day, Making it the perfect time to slowly take in the rustling of the trees and the scent of incense. Taking a leisurely walk along the temple approach, I enjoyed their famous soba noodles, And then explored the quiet temple grounds. Jindaiji Temple's "Ganzan Daishi Mikuji" is Famous for being the "origin of omikuji (fortune slips)". What's more, the omikuji here is Also known for yielding "a lot of bad luck (kyo)", So my heart was pounding a little the moment I drew it... When I gently opened it, To my surprise, the result was "Great Blessing (Daikichi)" ✨ The fresh greenery of May is also truly stunning, Making it a place where you just want to take a slow, deep breath. Walking over to the nearby Jindai Botanical Gardens, I was able to enjoy the seasonal flowers, which was so relaxing 🍃 Stroll

🚩 Chofu The adventure begins the moment you step out of Chofu Station! Hunting for traces of Kitaro along the way. From the sidewalks and little parks to Tenjin-dori Shopping Street, there are surprising yokai statues everywhere: Kitaro, Medama Oyaji, Nezumi Otoko, Ittan Momen... and more! It feels like stepping into the yokai world created by Shigeru Mizuki. Little surprises are hidden around every corner, making it impossible not to stop and snap photos. It's just so cute~ 🚩 Ghibli Museum, Mitaka This was a highly anticipated part of the trip. I was so bummed about not getting tickets last year. Tried our luck grabbing tickets again this year—huge thanks to my awesome friends! 💪 From the very moment you walk through the doors, every stained glass window, mechanical contraption, and the Giant Warrior on the roof is brimming with endless imagination. The entire museum is packed with hidden details waiting to be discovered. My absolute favorite was the room showcasing the original sketches. Looking at those pencil strokes, that's where all the magic begins ahhhh~~~ After visiting the sketch room, my respect for Hayao Miyazaki's animated world grew even deeper. 🚩 Evening shopping at the arcade next to Kichijoji Station Stumbled upon Kamukura Ramen by chance. The broth was incredibly light and refreshing with plenty of veggies, what a pleasant surprise!!! (Already added to my go-to food list)

I held my husband's hand tightly. Around us was a real forest—trees, trails, rocks. And from behind every stone, someone familiar from childhood peeked out. Pikachu sat on a stump. Snorlax snoozed in the grass. Eevee soared somewhere above. We’re adults, yet we stood there smiling like kids. Here’s how it works—and how to visit before tickets sell out. PokéPark KANTO: The world’s first Pokémon park, already sold out months ahead On February 5, 2026, PokéPark KANTO opened as the world’s first permanent outdoor Pokémon park. It’s located within Yomiuriland, an amusement park nestled in the Tama Hills in western Tokyo. Covering 2.6 hectares, the park is divided into two zones: Pokémon Forest—a 500-meter nature trail featuring over 600 Pokémon in recreated natural habitats—and Kayatsuri Town, a mini-city with a Pokémon Center, Gym, attractions, parades, and a Trainer’s Market. Tickets are selling like hotcakes. As of January, many dates through the end of March were already marked as "sold out." But don’t panic—read on for tips. Getting there: The gondola is key Yomiuriland (よみうりランド) 📍 4015-1 Yanokuchi, Inagi-shi, Tokyo (東京都稲城市矢野口4015-1) 🚇 25 minutes from Shinjuku to Keio-Yomiuriland Station (Keio Sagamihara Line) → Sky Shuttle gondola (~5 min, ¥300 one way) / Odakyu bus (~5 min) Yomiuriland is about 25 minutes from Shinjuku—take the Keio Sagamihara Line to Keio-Yomiuriland Station. From there, you have options. We arrived at 9:30, thinking we’d make it in by 10:00. Not quite—the line for the gondola stretched down the hill. We quickly switched to the bus. Our advice: On weekdays or with kids, the gondola is delightful. On weekends during peak season, go straight for the bus—no hesitation. Both options take the same amount of time, but the bus skips the queue. Tickets: Three types, each offering different access Elite Trainer’s Pass: Adult from ¥14,000 / Child from ¥11,000. Includes Pokémon Forest + Kayatsuri Town + Yomiuriland. Trainer’s Pass: Adult from ¥7,900 / Child from ¥4,700. Includes Forest + Kayatsuri Town + Yomiuriland. Town Pass (available summer 2026): Adult from ¥4,700 / Child from ¥2,800. Access to Kayatsuri Town only. For international visitors, there’s a dedicated booking platform on the official website in English. For Japan residents, tickets are distributed via lottery from the 1st to the 12th of the month, three months before the visit. Overseas tourists follow a "first-come, first-served" system—refresh the page daily. Important: You cannot enter without a pre-purchased ticket. Tickets for PokéPark KANTO are only available in advance on the official website—there are no sales at the gate. Even more important: Download the PokéPark KANTO app ahead of time. It’s essential for lottery entries for Sedge Gym shows, shop slots, and priority access. Available in English for iOS and Android. Download it 2–3 days before your visit—it’s a must. Pokémon Forest: 500 meters inside the game Pokémon Forest is a 500-meter trail with varied terrain—hills, tall grass, tunnels, rocky paths. Pokémon from Kanto and other regions inhabit the area, running, battling, and sharing berries. We walked slowly—deliberately. Every ten meters brought a new discovery. Charmander by volcanic rocks. Squirtle by a small pond. Bulbasaur in fern thickets. Note: Due to the challenging terrain, children under 5 and their guardians cannot enter Pokémon Forest. For them, there’s Sedge Town. Sedge Town: When a Pokémon Center becomes real Sedge Town features a Trainers’ Market with exclusive merchandise, a Pokémon Center, Poké Mart, Primarina Fountain, and Sedge Gym with the Pika Pika Sparks! show several times a day. Sedge Town attractions: Pika Pika Paradise—a ride featuring Pikachu and over 30 Electric-types in the air. Vee Vee Voyage—a carousel with Eevee and Ponyta for the little ones. Both cost ¥1,200 for adults and ¥800 for children—purchase separately at the Trainer’s Market via mobile kiosk. At the Trainers’ Market, you’ll find hats, T-shirts, pins, and stickers. A special highlight: a random pin in a Poké Ball for ¥1,200. If you want a different Pokémon, check the pins on staff uniforms and ask to trade—it’s an unofficial ritual, and it works. Daisuki Shop—entry only via first-come, first-served tickets in the app. If you miss out, there are other shops throughout Sedge Town. Food in the park: Pikachu and Eevee popsicles are signature snacks. Themed dishes are available across Sedge Town. We tried Pikachu ramen at the café near the Gym—it was delicious, funny, and nostalgic. Yomiuriland: What to do before PokéPark opens or after Yomiuriland Amusement Park (よみうりランド) 📍 Same address—4015-1 Yanokuchi, Inagi-shi, Tokyo 🕐 10:00–20:30 (seasonal hours) 💴 One-Day Pass (entry + all rides): ¥5,900 adult / ¥4,700 teens / ¥4,100 kids and seniors Included with any PokéPark KANTO ticket Yomiuriland is one of Tokyo’s oldest and most beloved amusement parks. Beyond roller coasters, it offers seasonal events: pools in summer, light shows in winter, and cherry blossoms in spring. The main coaster is Bandit—a steel roller coaster with steep drops. Sky Shuttle—a gondola with scenic views. In bad weather, there are plenty of indoor areas. Our itinerary: Arrived at 9:45, entered PokéPark at 10:00, explored until 2:00 PM. Afterward, we enjoyed Yomiuriland rides until closing. It was a packed but manageable day. Where to stay: Two hotels near the park The logic: Don’t spend an hour commuting back and forth each day. Stay nearby and be first in line at the park. Toyoko Inn Tokyo Fuchu Nambu Line Minamitama Station (東横INN東京府中南武線南多摩駅前) 📍 3-1-1 Yoshikata, Inagi-shi, Tokyo 206-0803 (東京都稲城市矢野口3-1-1) 🚇 1-minute walk from Minamitama Station (JR Nambu Line)—15 minutes from Yomiuriland ⭐ 3 stars / rating 8.3/10 💴 From ¥7,500–12,000 (~$49–79) per night in April 2026 The most popular hotel near Keio-Yomiuriland Station according to Trip.com. Toyoko Inn Fuchu Nambu Line Minamitama Station is 3–4 km from Yomiuriland, offering 263 rooms with refrigerators and flat-screen TVs. Daily free breakfast buffet from 6:30 to 9:00 AM—crucial for park visits. Leave well-fed by 9:00 and arrive by 9:45—the perfect plan. Transport chain: Minamitama Station → JR Nambu Line → Tachikawa → Keio Sagamihara Line → Keio-Yomiuriland Station. About 30 minutes. With an early breakfast, it all fits. Hotel Nobes Chofu (ホテルノーブス調布) 📍 2-24-1 Fuda, Chofu-shi, Tokyo 182-0024 (東京都調布市布田2-24-1) 🚇 1-minute walk from Chofu Station (Keio Line) ⭐ 3 stars / rating 8.6/10 💴 From ¥12,000–19,000 (~$79–125) per night in April 2026 Hotel Nobes Chofu is 15 minutes by car from Yomiuriland. Chofu Station on the Keio Line offers direct access to Keio-Yomiuriland Station without transfers. 31 rooms, private bathrooms with showers and toilets, free parking. Nearby are grocery stores, restaurants, and convenience stores. A quiet residential area. Travel time: Chofu → Keio-Yomiuriland = 2 stops, about 15 minutes. Ideal for those driving—free parking. What else to do in the Tama area—beyond PokéPark Sanrio Puroland (サンリオピューロランド) 📍 1-31 Ochiai, Tama-shi, Tokyo 206-8588 (東京都多摩市落合1-31) 🚇 Tama-Center Station (Keio Sagamihara & Odakyu Tama Lines) 🕐 10:00–17:00 (Mon–Fri) / 10:00–19:00 (Sat–Sun); closed Wednesdays 💴 ¥3,300–4,400 depending on the day 8.2 km from Yomiuriland—Hello Kitty, Cinnamoroll, Kuromi in an indoor theme park. Perfect for families—two days, two parks. PokéPark + Puroland = ultimate kids’ Japan. Mount Takao (高尾山) 📍 2176 Takaomachi, Hachioji-shi, Tokyo (東京都八王子市高尾町2176) 🚇 45 minutes from Shinjuku via Keio Line to Takaosanguchi Station 💴 Hiking is free / cable car ¥490 one way In April, cherry blossoms bloom on Mount Takao, offering clear views of Mount Fuji on sunny days. One of the best spots for nature and iconic Japanese scenery. Jindaiji Temple & Chofu (深大寺・調布) 📍 5-15-1 Jindaiji Motomachi, Chofu-shi, Tokyo (東京都調布市深大寺元町5-15-1) One of Tokyo’s oldest Buddhist temples (733 AD), surrounded by famous soba noodle shops in charming wooden establishments. From the park, it’s a 15-minute train ride to Chofu. In April, visit for thousand-year-old cherry blossoms at the temple gates. Tokyo Racecourse (東京競馬場) 📍 1-1 Hiyoshi-cho, Fuchu-shi, Tokyo (東京都府中市日吉町1-1) 4 minutes from the nearest Toyoko Inn. Japanese horse racing in April isn’t just a sport—it’s a national celebration. We stumbled upon it and spent two hours there. The roar of the crowd, the scent of stables, kimonos in the audience. Total cost for April 2026 With Toyoko Inn: ≈ ¥65,000–90,000 With Hotel Nobes Chofu: ≈ ¥74,000–104,000 In Chinese yuan ¥ (CNY) for April 2026: Exchange rate: 1 JPY ≈ 0.049 CNY With Toyoko Inn Minamitama: ≈ 3,185–4,410 ¥ CNY for two With Hotel Nobes Chofu: ≈ 3,626–5,096 ¥ CNY for two What we realized as we left the forest We exited Pokémon Forest after 90 minutes. My husband carried a bag with an Eevee figurine—the one I accidentally dropped on the trail and didn’t want to go back for. He returned for it himself. "It’s Eevee," he said. As if that explained everything. But you know what? It did. PokéPark KANTO isn’t just an amusement park. It’s a place where, for two hours, you become who you were at eight years old. Without shame, without irony. And maybe that’s the best gift travel can offer.

Carefully selected by a former travel agency employee!
Sharing cost-effective travel tips and experiences tailored for Gen Z office workers.
Follow us for exclusive recommendations and valuable travel knowledge! 😄
@KawaTabi✈️ Kanto Outings🧳 
----------------------------------------------------
Check out the details below👇
Which spot interests you the most?
Let us know in the comments! 🙏　　
① Jindaiji Natural Hot Spring Yumori no Sato 
📍 2-12-2 Jindaiji Motomachi, Chofu City, Tokyo
🚃 Take a bus from Keio Line's "Chofu Station" to "Jindaiji Elementary School" stop, then walk about 1 minute
🚗 About 10 minutes from Chuo Expressway "Chofu IC"
💰 Weekdays: Adults 1,200 yen / Weekends & Holidays: 1,500 yen
⛩️ A black hot spring sourced from Jindaiji's dragon vein. Relax in the feng shui-designed garden open-air bath to harmonize your "energy."
② Narita Ryusen no Yu 
📍 123-1 Matsuzaki, Narita City, Chiba Prefecture
🚗 About 10 minutes from Higashi-Kanto Expressway "Narita IC"
🚃 Take a bus from JR "Narita Station" to "Matsuzaki" stop, right nearby
💰 Weekdays: Adults 900 yen / Weekends & Holidays: 1,000 yen
🐉 Named after the Dragon God, this hot spring features spacious open-air baths and stone saunas. Reset your luck by absorbing the "energy" here!
③ Nanasawa-so 
📍 1826 Nanasawa, Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture
🚗 About 25 minutes from Tomei Expressway "Atsugi IC"
🚃 Take a bus from Odakyu Line's "Hon-Atsugi Station," about 30 minutes
💰 Day-use bathing: Adults 1,200 yen
🌌 A lodge themed around "receiving cosmic energy." Located at the foot of the sacred Mt. Oyama, feel the flow of energy in this beautifying hot spring.
④ Hyakukannon Onsen 
📍 2-19-1 Nishiodawa, Kuki City, Saitama Prefecture
🚃 Right near JR Utsunomiya Line's "Higashi-Washinomiya Station" East Exit
🚗 About 15 minutes from Tohoku Expressway "Kuki IC"
💰 Adults 850 yen (no time limit)
♨️ Renowned for one of the best hot spring qualities in Kanto. With a Kannon statue on-site, rejuvenate both body and soul while boosting your luck!
⑤ Saitama Seigouji Onsen 
📍 683-4 Seigouji, Nishi-ku, Saitama City, Saitama Prefecture
🚗 About 15 minutes from Shuto Expressway "Yono IC"
🚃 Take a bus from JR Omiya Station West Exit to "Seigouji" stop, right nearby
💰 Weekdays: Adults 850 yen / Weekends & Holidays: 950 yen
🌿 A natural hot spring flowing from 1,500 meters underground. Surrounded by a garden-style open-air bath, immerse yourself in nature's energy for ultimate relaxation.
⑥ Tenseien 
📍 682 Yumoto, Hakone Town, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa Prefecture
🚃 About 12 minutes on foot from Hakone Tozan Railway's "Hakone-Yumoto Station" (free shuttle bus available)
🚗 About 10 minutes from Odawara-Atsugi Road "Hakone Exit"
💰 Day-use bathing: Adults 2,700 yen (+330 yen on weekends & holidays)
⛩️ Home to "Tamasudare Shrine," "Tamasudare Waterfall," and "Hien Waterfall," this site is a true power spot!
Please confirm the latest information on each facility's official website before visiting, as details are based on official sites and Google Maps.
If you like this post, don't forget to like♡ and save it!
----------------------------------------------------
Introducing recommended tourist spots and hotels✌️
Also sharing travel tips, so be sure to check them out✈️
If you find this helpful and want to support us, follow us for more updates! 😆
\Travel as the starting point of life./
---------------------------------------------------
 #DayTripPlans巡り
【Photo Credits】
Images sourced from official websites

Jindai Botanical Gardens in Chofu, Tokyo There are buses from Chofu Station and Mitaka Station, so I took the one from Mitaka Station 🚌💨 Admission is cheap, only 500 yen for adults. I thought it would be small, but I was surprised. It's quite spacious, so it's quite a workout (lol) There are greenhouses on the premises and bananas are grown there🍌 There are a lot of different kinds of flowers and plants, and the names of flowers are written everywhere, so it's educational✒️ There was no line to enter, so I was able to enter smoothly🙆♀️ This is the perfect spot for relaxation in Tokyo✨️ #0yentravelautumn #Jindaibotanicalgarden 📍Address: 5-31-10 Jindaiji Motomachi, Chofu-shi, Tokyo 182-0017 🕰️Opening hours: 9:30-17:00 (closed on Mondays) 💰Price per person: 500 yen (adult)

Corfu, an island off Greece’s northwest coast in the Ionian Sea, is defined by rugged mountains and a resort-studded shoreline. Its cultural heritage reflects years spent under Venetian, French and British rule before it was united with Greece in 1864. Corfu Town, flanked by 2 imposing Venetian fortresses, features winding medieval lanes, a French-style arcade and the grand Palace of St. Michael and St. George. #passionpassport #mytripvlog #urbanexplorer #tripblazers #awesomepic #cafe #awesomepic #celebratewithtrip #couplestrip #2023travelwish #passionpassport

Chofu City, where Fudatan Shrine is located, is where Mizuki Shigeru, the creator of Gegege no Kitaro, lived. It seems he visited Fudatan Shrine during his stroll, and the entire area is dotted with things related to Gegege no Kitaro! The shrine grounds are surrounded by trees and are a lively place that also serves as a playground for children. ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ ❥❥ Futata Tenjin Shrine 🚉Chofu Station　 →🚶‍♀️About 8 minutes walk ✼••┈┈┈┈••✼••┈┈┈┈••✼ #Futata Tenjin Shrine #Shrine tour #GeGeGe no Kitaro #Tokyo trip #Tokyo sightseeing

#Japan Attractions After an interesting approach to the temple, you will arrive at Jindaiji Temple, which has a long history. It is the second most ancient temple in Tokyo after Sensoji Temple. The Sanmon Gate is the oldest existing building in Jindaiji Temple. The core of the temple, the Main Hall, houses a statue of Amitabha Buddha. It was originally burned down in a fire during the Edo period and was later rebuilt during the Taisho period. Lions, dragons and elephants are carved on the beams and pillars, and phoenixes are carved under the windshields, reflecting the architectural features of the Edo period. The Shakado Hall next to the main hall enshrines the Hakuho Buddha, a national treasure of Japan, and there is a fee for visiting. The Gensandaishi Hall houses a statue of Jikedaishi (Gensandaishi) from the Heian period, commemorating his achievements on Mount Hiei. We also saw two of Japan's Seven Lucky Gods, Daikokuten (the god of medicine and wealth who specializes in curing diseases) and Ebisu (the guardian god of the sea), they were so chubby and cute🤣🤣 The various Buddha statues are exquisitely carved and look calm, which is very eye-opening and suitable for worship🤗🤗🤗

#Japan Attractions Jindaiji Temple can be reached by taking the Chofu 34 bus from Chofu Station, getting off at Jindaiji Elementary School-mae and walking for 5 minutes. You can also walk there after visiting Futaten Shrine. In Jindaiji Temple, you can meet various monsters from the Gegege no Kitaro comics and the Yokai Bus 🚌, Gegege no Kitaro, Ghost Eyes Dad, Star Mouse, Granny Sand, Grandpa Wa Wa, Cloth Vanguard, Wall Monster, full of childhood memories There is also a teahouse with a Gegege no Kitaro theme on the main street. The first floor sells simple refreshments, and the second floor is a small exhibition hall with an introduction to the Gegege no Kitaro comics and the author. Before visiting Jindaiji Temple, take a photo with Kitaro's friends. You can also try the famous soba noodles here and enjoy the scenery along the way.

#Japan Attractions I bought the Keio Line day trip voucher to have the most fun. From Takao Pass, I can take a direct ride to Tiaofu Station to see Kitaro's countryside Once you arrive at the station, you will see the Budoten Shrine According to legend, Sugawara Michika was born in the Year of the Ox. At that time, the cow holding the coffin was lying on the ground when passing by the current Dazaifu Tenmangu Shrine area and was unwilling to move forward, so the coffin was placed on the spot. After that, the cow became the messenger of the gods Because when I arrived in Kitaro's countryside, I saw his statues everywhere, which was quite interesting😊😊

40 minutes by train from Shinjuku, you can get off at Chofu Station.. This is Jindaiji, loved by locals.. It is a place with an Edo-period feel and is also famous as a soba town. It is famous as the place where the author of the yokai anime Gegegege Kitaro lived, so there are Kitaro characters here and there, and there are tea houses commemorating them, so it is a fun place to stop by. Oh, you must have soba for lunch here! You won't regret it :)

I came to see Jindaiji Temple and eat the famous soba at Jindaiji Temple. It is so famous that I couldn't leave without eating it. Fried soba is 1,200 yen, but the taste was not bad. You can easily find a soba restaurant anywhere, so choose a good location and go.

#QuintessaCampaign Tenjin-dori Shopping Street in Chofu! If you look closely, you'll see Kitaro and his friends everywhere! Even the manholes are decorated with Kitaro, which is a must-see for Kitaro fans. Highly recommended for those who like monsters! ~~Address~~~ 1-chome, Nuda, Chofu-shi, Tokyo 182-0024

#QuintessaCampaign I went to Kitaro Chaya Chofu Jindaiji Branch in Chofu, Tokyo! I was very excited about the konnyaku and manju on the painted walls, which is irresistible for Kitaro fans. There is also a Yokai Gallery where you can get a peek at Kitaro's yokai. ~~~Address~~~ 5-12-8 Jindaiji Motomachi, Chofu, Tokyo 182-0017 #BreathtakingView #Tokyo #Tokyo #Kitaro #OutingsWithKids #OutingsWithKidsTokyo

I visited Kitaro Teahouse and Jindaiji Temple. Kitaro Teahouse was very cute as you can see in the picture. There were a lot of goods for sale, so I recommend that fans visit. There were cute cups and handkerchiefs☺️ Jindaiji Temple has a calm atmosphere, so we walked slowly while chatting and had the famous soba noodles. It's recommended for dates, and there is also a botanical garden🌿 nearby, so it's also recommended for walks🚶‍♀️ #Kanto #breathtakingview #gourmettrip #Kitaro #gourmet

The Nogawa River, a tributary of the Tama River, flows for about 20 km through Kokubunji City, Koganei City, Mitaka City, Chofu City, and Komae City, and merges with the Tama River in Setagaya Ward. There are promenades on both banks, and there are many places where several to 10 cherry trees are planted, but the best place to see it is about 650 meters downstream from Mitaka Street between Enokibashi and Hosodabashi. From the bridge, you can see the branches of Somei Yoshino cherry trees planted along a quiet residential area drooping over the riverbank. There is a promenade with a car stop and a walking path on the riverbank, so you can enjoy it from any spot. This is the 47th of the 88 cherry blossom temple pilgrimage. Location: Sasu-cho 3-4-chome, Chofu City Access: 10 minutes walk from Nuda Station on the Keio Line #trip2022 #SpringtimeGoingToWhereToPlay

▽Chofu Shopping Street Chofu Shopping Street is located right next to Chofu Station. This is a small shopping street lined with old-fashioned shops. The yellow signs and glittering hanging decorations create a nostalgic atmosphere. ▽Recommended photo spots We recommend taking photos with a film camera or old lenses! Photos taken in this emotionally charged area are sure to be Instagram-worthy. ▽Notes Due to the current situation, some stores may be closed or have shortened business hours, so be sure to check before you go! #Tokyo #ShoppingStreet #SummerShoppingTrip

▽Izumi Izumi is a cafe located about a 4-minute walk from Chofu Station on the Keio Line. Here you can enjoy specialty coffee and homemade lemonade. The high ceilings and spacious interior make it a very relaxing space! ▽Recommended points Inside the store, records and ceramic tableware are displayed. The tableware was made by an architect, and apparently it is replaced every now and then. No matter how many times you go, you will enjoy the artwork and the space! #Tokyo #Chofu #Cafe hopping #Cafe #Tokyo Cafe #Cafe hopping #Gourmet trip

▽Tamagawa River The Tamagawa riverbed is about a 10-minute walk from Keio Tamagawa Station on the Keio Line. From here, you can see the vast sky and the big river. ▽Recommended photo spots There are several baseball grounds. The photos you take here will remind you of your youth. Please try standing on the mound and bringing props such as a ball! ▽Nearby spots In addition to the Tamagawa River area, Mount Takao, Yomiuri Land, and Sanrio Puroland are located along the line. While you're there, why not stop by the Tamagawa riverbed? #Tourism support #Tamagawa River #Tokyo #River #Ready-to-use photo techniques #Photo guide for tourist spots #Summer trip

Slow travel in Tokyo|Suburban area 🍂 Jindaiji Temple ▾ In Jindaiji, there is the famous Kitaro Tea House. I heard there is a famous temple here for seeking marriage! 💕 If you have a chance to come here, why not give it a try😂 · A brief introduction about Jindaiji Temple (from the official website): Jindaiji Temple is located in the suburbs of Tokyo. It is not only a temple with a long history, but also one of the three major Daruma cities in Japan. The origin of Jindaiji Temple comes from a legend. There was a young man named Fuman who fell in love with the daughter of a wealthy family. However, the girl's parents strongly opposed it and isolated their daughter on a small island on the lake. Fuman, who was at his wits' end, prayed to King Shensha and a magical turtle appeared, which carried Fuman to the isolated island. After the girl's parents learned about this, they finally agreed to marry their daughter to Fuman. The child born to this couple was Master Man Gong. It is said that in order to fulfill his father's wish to worship King Shensha, Master Man Gong became a monk and founded Shenda Temple. This romantic love story is recorded in "The Origin of Jindaiji Temple", and Jindaiji Temple has therefore become a famous temple for praying for marriage. #Japan #Tokyo #JapanTravel #Jindaiji Temple #Travel

If the last batch of orchids made me marvel at "how nature could design flowers like this," then this time, in the Main Greenhouse at Jindai Botanical Gardens, I discovered an even more incredible side to orchids—not only can they "change faces," but they can actually emit the scent of chocolate! The cluster of dark red flowers in the photo doesn't look like the most flamboyant, but right next to it, there's a special note: "This one has the scent of chocolate!" I couldn't help but lean in to take a sniff, and I was truly stunned. It wasn't just "a little bit like it," but a quite clear, rich chocolate aroma. Yet, it wasn't as heavy or greasy as real chocolate; the floral scent brightened it up, making it smell lighter, fresher, and even a bit like a blend of vanilla and cocoa. This orchid is the famous Oncidium Sharry Baby ‘Sweet Fragrance’. I checked the information from the Japanese botanical garden, and sure enough, my sense of smell wasn't playing tricks on me: it is the Chocolate Orchid, known for its rich chocolate scent. Moreover, in recent flower-viewing records at Jindai Botanical Gardens, this "chocolate-scented" orchid has been specifically mentioned many times. What's even more interesting is that you have to pick the right time to smell it. According to the Hyogo Prefectural Awaji Yumebutai Greenhouse in Japan, the scent of this variety is usually most noticeable from the morning to the early afternoon. The flower stems can grow over 60 cm long, with many small flowers blooming densely on a single stem, and the fragrance can last for several weeks. The local greenhouse states the main viewing period is from October to March of the following year, but Jindai Botanical Gardens has records of it blooming at other times, such as late spring, so the actual blooming period under greenhouse cultivation conditions is more flexible. Why do orchids happen to smell like chocolate? This is actually one of the most fascinating things about orchids. Floral fragrance is essentially a "scent language" composed of volatile chemical substances, and its main task is not to please humans, but to attract pollinators. The American Orchid Society also emphasized its strong fragrance when introducing Sharry Baby, noting that its complex hybrid background includes multiple fragrant Oncidium ancestors; as the greenhouse gradually warms up in the morning, the fragrance is released noticeably. In other words, the "chocolate" we smell is our sense of smell identifying the combination of volatile aromas it releases as familiar impressions of cocoa, vanilla, and sweetness. So, when coming here to enjoy the orchids, I strongly suggest adding an action that is easily overlooked: don't just take photos, remember to smell them. There are quite a few "stars" in the photos as well. The clusters of large, pale pink and vibrant purple flowers are the Phalaenopsis orchids we are most familiar with. The name is extremely descriptive—the blooming flowers really look like a group of butterflies resting on branches. You don't need to get too close to photograph these orchids; step back a little and let the curved flower stalks and the continuously blooming flowers enter the frame together, which actually gives more of a feeling of "butterflies dancing in a group." That huge white orchid is especially beautiful: its snow-white petals are spread out, and the throat is suddenly suffused with bright yellow and orange. I don't want to be presumptuous about the specific cultivar based solely on the photo, but judging by the flower shape, it belongs to the large-flowered Cattleya alliance. The most worth-admiring part of this orchid is the lip—don't just look at the "big white petals." Lower your camera angle to observe the center, and you will find that all the truly gorgeous structures are concentrated there. And that huge pinkish-purple flower in the photo takes the magnificence of the Cattleya genus to the extreme: the huge, light pink petals spread out like silk, while the central lip suddenly turns into an intense purplish-red, and then a circle of golden yellow firmly draws your gaze to the center of the flower. It belongs to the type of orchid that is already beautiful in photos, but the sense of scale in person is even more stunning. The purple grid-patterned ones are the highly recognizable Vanda orchids. The deep purple veins on the petals look like hand-drawn geometric grids, yet every stroke is grown by the plant itself. Information from tropical botanical gardens in Japan also introduces that Vanda orchids mostly come from Southeast Asia and prefer high-temperature and high-humidity environments, and one of their greatest ornamental features is their extremely rich colors and patterns. Seibu Hotel There is also a pot in the photo that has left its name tag directly: Miltonia Eastern Bay ‘Russian’. With white edges, large areas of wine red and purple, plus the striking golden yellow in the center, the whole flower looks like a carefully painted clown's face. Miltonia orchids and their related hybrids are often reminiscent of pansies because of their broad petals. When enjoying this kind of orchid, it is best to take photos from the front, allowing the nearly symmetrical "mask" to be fully presented. Another photo also captured the tag—Oncidium Sharry Baby ‘Sweet Fragrance’. So, the most interesting "chocolate orchid" this time has actually been photographed with its ID card by you. 😄 The yellow one is even more special; the tag behind it can be identified as Paphiopedilum lawrenceanum, which is a member of the Paphiopedilum genus. The easiest way to recognize a Paphiopedilum is by that lip that looks like a "small pocket," which is why this type of orchid is often called Lady's Slipper Orchid in English. When looking at it, don't just take photos from the front; move slightly to the side, and the three-dimensional structure like a "slipper" will truly be revealed. However, the last two small bright red flowers must be specially noted: they are not orchids. Judging from the photos, they are closer to a type of tropical plant in the Jatropha genus. Five bright red petals paired with bright yellow stamens appear exceptionally simple and lively among the room full of structurally complex orchids. It also reminds us that the Main Greenhouse at Jindai Botanical Gardens is not just an orchid house, but a small tropical world composed of orchid rooms, tropical plants, and more. The most recommended way to play is actually: the first round look at the colors, the second round look at the structures, and the third round smell the fragrance. First, look at the overall inflorescence of the Phalaenopsis and Vanda from a distance; then get close to observe the wrinkled lips of the Cattleya and the wonderful "slippers" of the Paphiopedilum; finally, go find the Sharry Baby. If conditions permit, go smell it from the morning to the early afternoon, as it is likely easier to capture that signature sweet chocolate scent than in the evening. And you must walk half a circle around an orchid. From the front, it's a face; from the side, it might be a bird; from a distance, it's a butterfly, but when you squat down, it looks like an alien creature; some flowers look ordinary, but the moment you bring your nose close, the whole world suddenly turns into a chocolate shop. This is probably why I like the Main Greenhouse at Jindai Botanical Gardens more and more. The beauty of orchids really cannot be described in one go. They have taken colors, textures, shapes, and even scents to the extreme. Especially that "chocolate" that wasn't actually eaten but truly existed in the air—it will probably become the most interesting and memorable memory of this visit to the Main Greenhouse. Sometimes, nature's most brilliant works really don't need humans to add anything more.

📍 Destination: Chofu, Tokyo · Jindai Botanical Gardens 📸 Highlights: Main Greenhouse Begonia Exhibition Room · Peak blooming season for tuberous begonias · Historical Edo-era hunting grounds ✨ Tags: If spring in Tokyo belongs to cherry blossoms, then Jindai Botanical Gardens at the turn of summer and autumn is a romantic paradise dominated by tuberous begonias! Step into this comprehensive botanical garden—the largest (approx. 49 hectares) and only one of its kind in Tokyo—and you'll find the begonia exhibition room in the main greenhouse feels like a hidden fairy-tale palace, captivating and unforgettable. 📜 Past and present: From Edo hunting grounds to an urban oasis The beauty of this park lies not only in its flowers but also in its rich historical tapestry: · Edo period: This land was once a hunting ground for the Tokugawa shogunate (preserving the Musashino landscape), full of rustic, natural charm. · Modern transformation: After the war, it served as the "Jindai Green Space" for cultivating Tokyo's street trees. It was officially renamed "Jindai Botanical Gardens" in 1961 (Showa 36), bringing together about 4,800 species and 100,000 plants, divided into 30 specialized garden areas. · Today's scenery: Adjacent to Jindai-ji, the second oldest temple in Tokyo, it blends history and nature. The park's treasure, the "titan arum" (taken over from the University of Tokyo), is a miracle when it blooms; the main gate rose garden and French-style garden are also full of charm. 🌺 Love at first sight: The "aristocrats of flowers" in the photos The star of the lens is the tuberous begonia (Begonia × tuberhybrida, also known as camellia begonia or couple's begonia), hailed as the "crown of begonias": · Elegant shape: The double-petaled varieties in the photos are layered, with charming wavy folds on the petal edges, as large as peonies/camellias (flower diameter can reach 10–20 cm). They often grow in pairs, earning the romantic nickname "couple's begonia." · A feast of color: From light orange-pink edges (photos 1/8), soft peach-pink, bright orange-yellow (photos 4/9/11), to fiery red (photos 3/10) and pure snow-white (photo 5), the color saturation is extremely high. Paired with asymmetrical heart-shaped serrated leaves, some with reddish-bronze patterns on the back, and thick, fuzzy stems, they are full of vitality. · Plant trivia: They have enlarged fleshy tubers underground. They prefer cool temperatures (16–25°C) and semi-shaded, diffused light, and dislike humidity and waterlogging. ⚠️ Mild toxicity warning: The sap contains calcium oxalate. It is safe to view, but please wash your hands after touching the tubers to prevent accidental ingestion by pets or children. 🌿 In-depth tour: Greenhouse secrets and local vibes · Main Greenhouse (built in 1984): The begonia exhibition room is "small but exquisite," with excellent temperature and humidity. Under the steel-framed glass skylight, the velvety texture of the tuberous begonias is perfectly highlighted—every shot is wallpaper-worthy. There are also orchid rooms, tropical water lilies, carnivorous plants, and more. · Stop by Jindai-ji: Accessible from the park's back gate (the second oldest temple in Tokyo). After exploring, don't forget to try a bowl of authentic Jindai-ji soba noodles to wrap up your trip. 📝 Trip.com Travel Photography · Practical Tips · Admission: ¥500 for adults (cash preferred), ¥200 for junior high students, free for elementary school students and younger. · Hours: 9:30 AM–5:00 PM (last admission at 4:00 PM); closed on Mondays (if a holiday falls on a Monday, it will be closed the following day), and closed during the year-end/New Year holidays. · Transportation: Take the Keio Line to Chofu Station and transfer to a bus to "Jindai Shokubutsu Koen-mae"; or take the Keio Line to Tsutsujigaoka Station and transfer to a bus to "Jindai-ji/Jindai Shokubutsu Koen." · Best time to visit: The natural blooming season for tuberous begonias is July–October (extended in the greenhouse); it's a great destination year-round (cherry blossoms in spring, lotus in summer, maple leaves in autumn, and the greenhouse in winter). 📸 Travel photography reflections: At Jindai Botanical Gardens, history and nature intertwine, and tuberous begonias interpret the romance of summer and autumn with the most intense colors. They are delicate yet passionate, much like the unexpected surprises encountered during travel. If you love flowers, history, and off-the-beaten-path gems, this place definitely deserves a spot on your must-visit list for Tokyo!

Many know Jindai Botanical Gardens only for its world-class outdoor rose garden, often overlooking the large greenhouse at the park's center, which houses around 1,300 plant varieties. The moment you step through the greenhouse doors, you are greeted by a warm, humid tropical breeze. Above, a translucent geometric steel canopy filters the light, while before you lies a vibrant world spanning from equatorial rainforests to arid deserts. This is more than just a greenhouse; it is a living, evolving "museum of Earth's flora." 🌸 Exotic flowers through the lens: The stunning stars of the Grand Greenhouse The breathtaking blooms captured in these photos are the greenhouse's most eye-catching stars: Tuberous Begonia, like a gorgeous chandelier: Step into the Begonia Room and be greeted by an overwhelming waterfall of hanging blooms. Large, double-petaled tuberous begonias in golden yellow and pure white unfold layer by layer, their delicate, translucent petals resembling exquisite dance dresses suspended in mid-air. Nearby, dense curtains of vibrant red begonias hang down, creating a delightful contrast with the metallic luster and intricate, painting-like veins of the foliage begonias. Exquisite and unique hanging chimes: Fringed Hibiscus. Vermilion flowers hang from slender stems, their petal edges deeply split and curled like red coral. Long, elegant stamen styles protrude, resembling wind chimes swaying deep within a tropical jungle. Passionate and vibrant: Yellow Hibiscus. Rich, pure golden-yellow petals unfold like satin, with a faint white halo at the center. Orange-red anthers sit atop the style, capturing the bright, vivid sunshine of a tropical island. Like crystal cinnabar: Euphorbia milii hybrid. In the arid plant zone, amidst slender, pine-needle-like green leaves, eight small, bright red "bracts" are symmetrically arranged. They look like clusters of tiny flames dancing in the grass—vivid and charming. Warm and jade-like: Native begonia inflorescence. Pale pink, translucent, heart-shaped flowers bloom in clusters, accented by goose-yellow stamens. Their soft veins reveal the unadorned, simple spirit of native plant species. 🌿 "National treasure" rare plants hidden in the Grand Greenhouse Beyond its year-round blooms, the Jindai Grand Greenhouse is renowned across Japan for conserving world-class rare and endangered species: The world's largest: Titan Arum (Amorphophallus titanum). A legendary endangered species from Sumatra that blooms only once every few years. Its massive, candlestick-shaped inflorescence reaches nearly 3 meters in height and blooms for just 48 hours. On the night it blooms, it releases a pungent odor to attract insects. Certified by Guinness World Records as the "tallest and smelliest flower," it is the crown jewel of the Jindai Grand Greenhouse. A dreamy blue fairy: Jade Vine (Strongylodon macrobotrys). An endangered legume vine native to the Philippine rainforests. When it blooms in spring, it hangs from the ceiling in clusters up to 1 meter long, glowing with fluorescent green and turquoise (jade) hues, resembling cold, precious gems crafted by nature. Sparks from isolated islands: Endangered plants endemic to the Ogasawara Islands. The greenhouse features a dedicated Ogasawara plant room, cultivating core rare species from this World Natural Heritage site, including the Munin-no-botan (Melastoma tetramerum), which is listed as critically endangered (IA) in Japan. It is a must-visit destination for science education. A mysterious living fossil: Welwitschia mirabilis. The arid zone displays this strange gymnosperm from the Namib Desert. It grows only two leaves in its entire lifetime and can survive for thousands of years in harsh, arid conditions—a truly astonishing life form. 📸 Visiting and photography guide Best photo spots: Begonia flower corridor: Stand directly beneath the hanging baskets and shoot upward, using the translucent steel dome as a backdrop to capture the layered transparency of sunlight filtering through the yellow petals and hanging branches. Floating begonia blossoms: The exhibition room often features basins filled with floating begonia petals. The gentle ripples reflecting the flowers create a serene, Japanese-inspired aesthetic. Transport and nearby recommendations: Transport: Take a bus from Chofu Station (Keio Line) or Kichijoji/Mitaka Station (JR Chuo Line) to the "Jindai Shokubutsu Koen-mae" (Jindai Botanical Gardens) stop. Nearby attractions: Exit the botanical garden via the "Jindaiji Gate" for a short stroll to the 1,300-year-old Jindaiji Temple. Enjoy a bowl of authentic Jindaiji soba along the tree-lined path to perfectly conclude your journey into the greenery.

From October 6 to November 23, 2026, Jindai Botanical Gardens will host the "Autumn Rose Festival." During the autumn rose blooming season, visitors can admire precious rose varieties such as the "Jindai Queen" and rose hips, while enjoying the rich fragrance of roses. 🌹 Rose Garden Viewing The Rose Garden at Jindai Botanical Gardens has received the Award of Garden Excellence from the World Federation of Rose Societies. It features many precious rose varieties, including the "Jindai Queen," which is named after the garden. The rose fragrance is particularly rich and intoxicating in the early morning. 🍂 Wild Species and Old Rose Garden In the Wild Species and Old Rose Garden, you can enjoy not only the roses but also the rose hips, experiencing the unique charm of autumn. 🎭 Lawn Plaza Activities The Lawn Plaza hosts bubble magic shows and rose concerts, perfect for the whole family to enjoy a relaxing and pleasant time outdoors. 🖼 Autumn Rose Exhibition The exhibition room on the first floor of the Botanical Hall hosts the Autumn Rose Exhibition, showcasing the diverse beauty of roses and offering a feast for both the eyes and the nose. ☕ Rose Cafe Terrace At the Rose Cafe Terrace, visitors can enjoy specialty food while taking in the beautiful scenery of the garden, spending a leisurely autumn day. ⏰ Hours: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM (opens early at 8:00 AM on select dates) ⏳ Recommended visit time: 8:00 AM – morning on October 10, 11, 17, 18, 24, 25, 31, and November 1 ⏰ Dates: October 6 – November 23, 2026 💡 Travel tip: We recommend visiting in the early morning to enjoy the rich rose fragrance on sunny days. Come to Jindai Botanical Gardens and immerse yourself in the fragrance and beauty of autumn roses!

Your title perfectly captures the feelings of many people who have visited Tokyo in September! But "very beautiful" and "not recommended" are not contradictory. Tokyo in September is a place full of contrasting charm—it's truly hot, but also truly fun. Based on the latest info, let me help you break down the two sides of Tokyo in September: ☀️ Why do I say "not recommended"? The weather is the ultimate challenge · Lingering summer heat: In September, daytime temperatures often soar above 30°C, and the humidity is high. It feels about the same as August; it's no exaggeration to say you'll change clothes twice a day. · Typhoon season: September is one of the rainiest months of the year, and you might encounter typhoons, so be sure to have rain gear and a light jacket ready. 🌸 Why is it "beautiful"? Unique experiences for late summer and early autumn · Extended fireworks festivals: The Chofu Fireworks and Kita Ward Fireworks extend the romance of summer into September. · Autumn flower fields: Cosmos at Showa Kinen Park and the bush clover tunnel at Mukojima-Hyakkaen Gardens, autumn is in the air. · Cultural festivals: You can participate in the Bon Odori at Asakusa Kaminarimon and the annual grand festival at Nezu Shrine to experience it to the fullest. 🗓️ The key to success: Timing your trip for the "off-peak Golden Week" The "Silver Week" in September 2026 (Sept 19–23) is a five-day holiday in Japan, which means crowds and skyrocketing hotel prices. However, from September 24, the crowds thin out, perfectly aligning with the Mid-Autumn Festival holiday (Sept 25–27), making it an excellent window for both experience and price. 🎒 How do savvy travelers do it? · Don't bring big suitcases: Train space is limited, so make good use of luggage delivery services from the airport to your hotel. · Don't just eat at convenience stores: Save some room for izakayas and specialty eateries. · Have a Plan B: On rainy days, you can visit indoor venues like teamLab or the Tokyo National Museum. Trip.com's popular strategy: Swap outdoor sightseeing in the scorching sun for morning park visits and flower viewing → afternoon in indoor museums/malls → evening at cool night festivals. Places like Rikugien Garden and the Asakusa night festivals are great for photos and avoiding the heat. So, Tokyo in September is like an iced matcha latte: the exterior is the heat of summer, but the core is the splendor of autumn. If you are sensitive to heat, you should definitely think twice. But if you've planned for the weather and timed your trip right, it's absolutely worth it! If you decide to brave September and want help planning a more comfortable itinerary for those specific days, let me know your planned dates~

📍 Location: Sengawa, Chofu City, Tokyo, Japan (Keio Line, Sengawa Station) 🌿 Vibe: Artistic and chic | Old-school local charm | Architectural aesthetics | Floral fragrance 🍱 A station-front encounter: The treasure seafood chirashi sushi at the old shop "Meguro Isetake" As soon as you step out of Sengawa Station, red and white lanterns sway in the summer breeze, and wind chimes tinkle. Right on the corner of the shopping street next to the station, "Meguro Isetake," with its large lanterns inscribed with "Zhicheng Tongtian" (Sincerity reaches heaven) and "Meijing Zhishui" (Clear mirror, still water), instantly captured my taste buds. This long-established sushi takeout shop, originally from Meguro, Tokyo, is extremely popular among locals in Sengawa. Their signature dishes are the bara chirashi (scattered sushi) and kaisen chirashi (seafood scattered sushi). The lucky last portion: The transparent container was packed to the brim—glistening flying fish roe, fresh and bouncy shrimp, delicate and creamy minced tuna, fresh sashimi cubes, tender squid, and classic tamagoyaki (rolled omelet), all as colorful as a jewelry box. Soul-stirring flavor: The rice was seasoned just right, and the umami of the seafood blended perfectly with the slightly tangy vinegared rice. Every bite was solid, satisfying, and full of happiness. If you happen to pass by in the evening and manage to snag the last portion like I did, it is truly the most healing "little joy" of the trip! 📖 The past and present of Sengawa: From quiet Musashino to "Little Paris of Tokyo" The past: Sengawa was once a quiet farming village nestled by the Sengawa River on the Musashino Plateau, surrounded by Musashino woodlands. After the war, with the establishment of Toho Gakuen (a renowned music and drama school) and the gathering of prestigious universities like Shirayuri University, Sengawa gradually infused deep musical and artistic DNA. The present: Today's Sengawa is known as the "chic ceiling" of Tokyo's western suburbs. It features both the avant-garde, modern feel of Tadao Ando's iconic exposed concrete building complex (Sengawa Ando Street) and the authentic, bustling atmosphere of the hundreds-of-meters-long "Sengawa Shopping Street (Harmo Town)." Flower shops, boutique cafes, general stores, and long-established shops coexist here. 🚶‍♀️ How to explore Sengawa? A nanny-level chic one-day walking route Check out the Tadao Ando architectural street (Ando Street) Walking east from the station, the entire street brings together several exposed concrete masterpieces designed by Tadao Ando, including the Chofu City Sengawa Theater, art museums, and commercial spaces. The light and shadow are incredibly penetrating, making every snapshot look like an architectural blockbuster. Stroll through the Sengawa Harmo Town shopping street Wander along the clean and spacious walkways, lined with various flower shops (blooming sunflowers instantly brighten your mood), Japanese general stores, and independent bakeries with mouth-watering aromas. Food hunting and relaxing by the river Buy a portion of "Isetake" seafood chirashi sushi, or find an outdoor cafe to sit for a while. In the evening, take a walk along the banks of the Sengawa River, watch the green trees reflected on both sides, and feel the relaxation that belongs to daily life in Tokyo. 🏷️ Travel tips Transportation: Take the Keio Line "Section Express" or "Rapid" train from Shinjuku Station, and you can reach Sengawa Station directly in about 15–20 minutes. Isetake business tip: The chirashi sushi is made fresh daily and sells out very quickly in the evening. If you pass by and see it, be sure to grab it early!