Things To Do
in Machida

Machida is a vibrant city located in the western part of Tokyo, Japan, known for its blend of urban life and natural beauty. It offers a unique cultural experience with its historical sites, parks, and shopping districts. The city is well-connected to Tokyo, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists.

With its rich history and modern amenities, Machida provides a delightful escape from the hustle and bustle of the capital.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring the City
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Machida Squirrel Garden, where you can interact with friendly squirrels and enjoy the natural surroundings.

afternoon
:

Head to the Machida City Museum of Graphic Arts to appreciate local art and culture, followed by a leisurely stroll through the nearby Machida Central Park.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a local izakaya, where you can try traditional Japanese dishes, and then take a relaxing walk around the illuminated streets.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Culture
morning
:

Begin your day at the beautiful Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden, enjoying a peaceful morning in nature.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Yakushi-ji Temple, one of the oldest temples in the area, and explore the surrounding gardens.

evening
:

Dine at a sushi restaurant and experience the freshness of local seafood, followed by visiting a local karaoke bar for some evening entertainment.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
Coffee$4
🚌Bus Fare$2
🏨Hotel Night$80

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural experiences
  • Beautiful natural scenery
  • Convenient access to Tokyo
  • Limited English signage
  • Traffic congestion during peak hours
  • Higher cost of dining in popular areas
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the bathroom?
  • "助けてください" - Please help me
  • "おいしい" - Delicious

Places to Visit in Machida

Visit one of these nice places.

Machida Central Park

A scenic park featuring beautiful landscapes, perfect for nature photography, especially during cherry blossom season.

Yakushi-ji Temple

An ancient temple with stunning architecture, offering captivating photo opportunities both inside and outside.

Machida Squirrel Garden

A unique spot to capture playful squirrels in a lush setting, especially appealing for animal lovers.

Culinary Guide

Food in Machida

Machida offers a delightful culinary scene where you can experience traditional Japanese cuisine and local specialties.

Machida Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Yakiniku

Grilled meat, often served with various dipping sauces and sides, is a must-try in Machida.

Must-Try!

Soba

Buckwheat noodles that can be enjoyed cold or hot, often served with a variety of toppings.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Machida Shopping Street

A bustling street market where you can find a variety of street food, including takoyaki and yakitori.

Climate Guide

Weather

Machida experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters are cool, with temperatures averaging around 3°C (37°F), while summers can be hot and humid, with averages reaching 30°C (86°F). Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Rainfall is more frequent in summer, so carrying an umbrella is advisable during this season.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bowing

Bowing is a common greeting in Japan, showing respect and politeness.

Shoes Off Indoors

It is customary to remove your shoes before entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments.

Quiet Public Spaces

Maintaining a low volume in public places, especially on public transport, is expected to respect others.

Safety Guide

Safety

Machida is considered a safe city with low crime rates. However, standard precautions such as being aware of your surroundings and keeping valuables secure are advised. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire or medical assistance.

Tipping in Machida

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and can be considered rude; exceptional service is expected without additional gratuity.

Payment Methods

Most places accept cash, but credit cards are commonly accepted in restaurants and shops. Mobile payment options like Suica are also popular.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect beautiful cherry blossoms in parks and a mild climate, making it ideal for outdoor activities.

Summer

Warm and humid weather, with occasional rain; perfect for enjoying local festivals and outdoor dining.

Autumn

The city becomes ablaze with fall colors, offering picturesque views and pleasant temperatures for sightseeing.

Winter

Cool temperatures with occasional snowfall; a great time to enjoy hot meals and warm drinks in cozy cafes.

Nightlife Guide

Machida at Night

Machida offers a lively nightlife scene with a variety of bars, izakayas, and karaoke establishments. The area around the station is bustling with activity, featuring a mix of traditional Japanese pubs and modern lounges. Many locals enjoy unwinding after work in izakayas, where you can enjoy drinks and small dishes. Karaoke bars are also popular, providing a fun way to socialize with friends or meet new people.

Hiking in Machida

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tama Hills Trail

A scenic hiking trail that offers beautiful views of the surrounding hills and is suitable for various skill levels.

Kamakura Hiking Trail

Located a short distance away, this trail provides a more challenging hike with stunning coastal views at the end.

Airports

How to reach Machida by plane.

Haneda Airport

Located about 30 km from Machida, Haneda Airport is the closest major airport, offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Machida is a walkable city with pedestrian-friendly streets, particularly around the shopping districts and parks. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and many attractions are within walking distance of each other. The city is designed to encourage walking, making it easy to explore on foot and discover hidden gems.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Machida, attracted by its proximity to Tokyo and a vibrant work-life balance.

Families

Machida is home to many families who appreciate the city's parks, schools, and community-oriented lifestyle.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a popular sport in Japan, with many local teams and a strong following among residents.

Soccer

Soccer has gained significant popularity, with local clubs and youth programs encouraging participation at all levels.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Machida can be busy, especially during rush hours, but the city has an efficient public transportation network. Buses and trains connect Machida to Tokyo and surrounding areas, making it easy to navigate. The local train station is a hub for commuters, and the city encourages the use of public transport over driving.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Machida.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes, but it's good to check if fish-based ingredients are present.

Gluten-Free

Gluten-free options can be limited; however, soba made from 100% buckwheat is a suitable choice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Machida is accessible, with a range of hospitals and clinics available for residents and visitors. Emergency medical services can be reached through the local emergency numbers. Many healthcare professionals speak basic English, and pharmacies are widely available for over-the-counter medications.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide