Things To Do
in Musashino

Musashino is a charming city located in the western part of Tokyo, Japan, known for its beautiful parks and a blend of urban and suburban atmospheres. The city is home to the famous Inokashira Park, a popular spot for picnics and cherry blossom viewing. Musashino boasts a rich cultural heritage, with numerous art galleries and traditional shops dotting its streets.

It serves as a peaceful retreat from the bustling metropolis while still offering easy access to Tokyo's vibrant attractions.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a stroll through Inokashira Park, enjoy the serene pond, and visit the small zoo.

afternoon
:

Explore the Ghibli Museum to experience the magic of Studio Ghibli films and their stunning animation.

evening
:

Dine at a traditional izakaya, savoring local dishes and then take a night walk in the park to see the beauty of the illuminated trees.

day 2
Day 2: Local Delights and City Life
morning
:

Visit the Musashino City Museum to learn about the local history and culture.

afternoon
:

Head to Kichijoji for shopping and lunch at a trendy café, followed by a visit to the local art galleries.

evening
:

Experience local nightlife in Kichijoji, enjoying live music or a quiet drink at a bar.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi meal$15
Coffee$4
🚉Train ticket (within Tokyo)$2
🍜Ramen bowl$9
💧Bottled water$1

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful parks and nature within the city.
  • Rich cultural experiences with museums and galleries.
  • Convenient access to central Tokyo.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to central Tokyo.
  • Can be crowded during cherry blossom season.
  • English is not widely spoken in some areas.
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No
  • "お手洗いはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?

Places to Visit in Musashino

Visit one of these nice places.

Inokashira Park

A picturesque park with cherry blossoms and a tranquil pond, perfect for landscape photography.

Ghibli Museum

The whimsical architecture and garden surroundings offer unique photo opportunities.

Kichijoji Street

Bustling streets filled with colorful shops and cafes, capturing the essence of local life.

Culinary Guide

Food in Musashino

Musashino offers a delightful culinary scene that reflects traditional Japanese flavors and unique local specialties.

Musashino Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Musashino Soba

Thin buckwheat noodles served cold with a flavorful dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Yakitori

Grilled chicken skewers seasoned with salt or tare sauce.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Kichijoji Food Market

A vibrant market offering fresh produce, street food, and local delicacies.

Climate Guide

Weather

Musashino experiences a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Spring (March to May) brings mild temperatures and cherry blossoms. Summer (June to August) is warm and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Autumn (September to November) features cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, while winter (December to February) is mild, with occasional snowfall.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect for Nature

Always clean up after yourself in parks and public spaces.

Quietness in Public Transport

Keep conversations to a minimum and turn off phone ringtones.

Waiting in Line

Always wait in line patiently and do not push ahead.

Safety Guide

Safety

Musashino is considered very safe for travelers, with low crime rates and friendly locals. However, it's always wise to stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep personal belongings secure. Emergency services are efficient, and signs are often bilingual to assist travelers.

Tipping in Musashino

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; service charges are usually included.

Payment Methods

Credit cards are widely accepted; however, carrying cash is advisable for small shops.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy the cherry blossoms in parks; it's a popular time for hanami (flower viewing) picnics.

Summer

Expect warm weather; visit parks early in the morning or late evening to avoid the heat.

Autumn

Fall foliage creates stunning landscapes; perfect for photography and outdoor activities.

Winter

Mild winters with occasional snow; enjoy seasonal festivals and illuminations.

Nightlife Guide

Musashino at Night

Musashino's nightlife is vibrant yet laid-back, with a range of izakayas, bars, and live music venues. Kichijoji is particularly lively, attracting a younger crowd with its fusion of traditional and modern establishments. From cozy pubs to trendy cocktail bars, visitors can enjoy a variety of atmospheres, often filled with locals sharing laughter and stories late into the night.

Hiking in Musashino

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Tama River Trail

A scenic trail along the Tama River, ideal for walking, cycling, and enjoying nature.

Musashino Park Trail

A gentle hiking trail that leads through lush greenery and offers stunning views of the city.

Airports

How to reach Musashino by plane.

Haneda Airport

Approximately 30 minutes away by train, Haneda is the closest airport offering both domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Musashino is quite walkable, especially around Kichijoji and Inokashira Park. Sidewalks are well-maintained, and there are many pedestrian-friendly areas. The city promotes a culture of walking, making it enjoyable to explore its charming streets and local shops on foot.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Young Professionals

Many young professionals live in Musashino, attracted by its proximity to Tokyo and vibrant local culture.

Families

The city is popular among families due to its parks, schools, and community facilities.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a favorite pastime in Japan, with many local teams and schools hosting games.

Soccer

Soccer has gained popularity, with local leagues and youth teams actively participating in competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Musashino can be moderate, particularly during peak commuting hours. However, the city is well-connected through public transportation, including trains and buses. The train system is efficient, making it easy to navigate to nearby areas and Tokyo.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Musashino.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian options; ensure to ask about ingredients.

Gluten-Free

Soba can be made gluten-free; it's best to inquire at restaurants.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Musashino is of high quality, with numerous hospitals and clinics available. The city has both public and private health facilities, offering services in English at some locations. Visitors should ensure they have travel insurance to cover any medical expenses.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide