A must-see attraction for a slow tour in Kichijoji! Suitable for families or couples
**Inokashira Onshi Park** is one of the famous parks in Tokyo, and is loved by tourists and local residents for its natural landscape, cultural facilities and leisure atmosphere. The following is a detailed introduction to the park:
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### **1. Basic Information**
- **Address**: 1-18-31 Gotenyama, Musashino City, Tokyo (part of the area is located in Mitaka City)
- **Opening hours**: Open all day (some facilities such as boating, zoo, etc. have specific hours)
- **Tickets**: Admission is free, but some facilities (such as zoo, boating) require payment.
- **Transportation**:
- JR Chuo Line/Keio Inokashira Line **Kichijoji Station** About 5 minutes walk
- Keio Inokashira Line **Inokashira Park Station** About 1 minute walk
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### **2. Main attractions and activities**
#### **① Inokashira Pond**
- The center of the park is a beautiful lake, which is said to have been dug by Tokugawa Ieyasu to supply water to Edo.
- **Boating**: You can rent a swan boat, paddle boat or pedal boat (cost about 500~1000 yen/30 minutes).
- **Cherry blossom season**: There are many cherry blossom trees planted on the lakeshore, which is one of the famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Tokyo (late March to early April).
#### **② Inokashira Park Zoo**
- **Divided into two areas**:
- **Zoo**: Animals such as red pandas and squirrel monkeys are raised.
- **Aquatic Park**: exhibits fish and amphibians.
- **Tickets**: 400 yen for adults, free for children (under elementary school age).
#### **③ Ghibli Museum in Mitaka Forest**
- Located on the west side of the park, about 15 minutes walk, tickets must be booked in advance.
- A museum with the theme of Hayao Miyazaki's animation, suitable for Ghibli fans.
#### **④ Benzaiten Shrine**
- A shrine located on an island in the lake, dedicated to Benzaiten (one of the Seven Lucky Gods of Japan, symbolizing art and wealth).
- Legend has it that couples who row a boat to Benzaiten will break up (urban legend, but attracts interesting discussions from tourists).
#### **⑤ Forest Trail and Picnic Area**
- There are large areas of forest and grass in the park, suitable for walking, jogging or picnics.
- The autumn leaves are also charming (mid-to-late November).
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### **3. Recommended places nearby**
- **Kichijoji**:
- Kichijoji, next to the park, is one of the most livable neighborhoods in Tokyo, with many cafes, grocery stores, and gourmet food (such as "SATOU" beef balls and "Hamonika Yokocho" izakaya street).
- **Art and Culture**:
- Open-air concerts or art exhibitions are occasionally held in the park.
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### **4. Notes**
- Bicycles are prohibited in the park (they must be parked in designated areas).
- There are more tourists on weekends and during the cherry blossom season, so it is recommended to go on weekdays.
- You may have to queue up for boating, especially on holidays.
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Inokashira Park combines nature, history, and art. Whether you want to relax, date, or go on a family trip, it is a great choice!