Things To Do
in Nakano
Nakano is a vibrant and bustling city located in the western part of Tokyo, Japan. It is known for its lively atmosphere and diverse range of shopping options, including the popular Nakano Broadway shopping complex. The area is also a hub for otaku culture, with numerous anime and manga stores lining its streets.
Additionally, Nakano is home to a variety of restaurants serving delicious Japanese cuisine, making it a popular destination for both locals and tourists alike.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $30 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $20 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day at Nakano Broadway, exploring its diverse selection of shops and eateries. Enjoy a breakfast at a local café, savoring a steaming cup of matcha.
Visit the Nakano Shiki no Mori Park, a beautiful area perfect for a leisurely stroll. Don't forget to pack a picnic to enjoy among the blooming flowers.
End your day at a traditional izakaya, tasting a variety of local dishes. Engage with the friendly locals and share stories over drinks.
Begin with a visit to the Nakano Historical Museum to learn about the city's rich past. The exhibits provide insight into traditional crafts and local history.
Take a walk to the nearby Kichijoji, where you can explore the charming streets filled with boutique shops. Stop for a delicious lunch at a popular ramen spot.
Head to the Koenji area for a live music show, experiencing the vibrant local music scene. The atmosphere is lively and perfect for enjoying a long evening.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Vibrant cultural scene with numerous cafés, bars, and entertainment options.
- Home to Nakano Broadway, a popular shopping complex known for anime, manga, and collectibles.
- Strong sense of community and local events, promoting social interactions.
- Excellent public transportation connectivity, making it easy to travel to central Tokyo.
- Diverse dining options, ranging from traditional Japanese cuisine to international flavors.
- Can be crowded, especially in popular areas like Nakano Broadway.
- Cost of living might be high compared to less urban areas in Japan.
- Limited space for new developments due to urban density.
- Noise and activity in busy areas might not be suitable for those seeking tranquility.
- Public services may become strained during peak tourist seasons.
Best Activities in Nakano
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Enjoy outdoor picnics, live performances, or strolling around the beautiful garden at Nakano Sunplaza.
Engage in outdoor activities like jogging, cycling, or simply relaxing amidst nature at Nakano Central Park.
Explore the greenery, have a leisurely walk, or participate in sports activities at Nogata Park in Nakano.
Tours
Uncover the best of Nakano with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Nakano
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers a panoramic view of Nakano and the surrounding areas, especially at sunset and nighttime.
A popular shopping complex with unique architecture and great street-level views for photography enthusiasts.
A serene park with beautiful seasonal landscapes and ideal spots for capturing natural scenery and wildlife.
Food in Nakano
Nakano Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Rich and flavorful pork-based broth with noodles, topped with tender chashu slices, spring onions, and a marinated soft-boiled egg. Try Ramen Setagaya for an authentic bowl of tonkotsu ramen.
Must-Try!
Golden, crispy octopus-filled batter balls, served with savory sauce, mayonnaise, and bonito flakes. Visit Nakano Broadway's food stalls for delightful takoyaki.
Savory Japanese pancakes mixed with various ingredients like cabbage, seafood, and pork, then topped with sweet okonomiyaki sauce and bonito flakes. Head to Harajuku for an excellent okonomiyaki experience.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Nakano better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Discover a wide array of street food options, including yakitori skewers, karaage, and taiyaki, as you explore Nakano Broadway's bustling food alley.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Nakano, Japan, it is important to bow as a sign of respect when greeting someone or thanking them. The depth of the bow can vary depending on the situation and the person's seniority or status.
When entering a home, traditional ryokan, or some restaurants in Nakano, it is customary to remove your shoes before stepping inside. This shows respect for the cleanliness of the indoor space.
In public spaces, it is important to maintain a quiet and considerate demeanor in Nakano. Loud or disruptive behavior, especially in places like trains or public transport, is generally considered impolite.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Nakano with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Nakano
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is generally not practiced or expected in Nakano, Japan. It is not customary to tip in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries. In fact, tipping may be considered rude in Japanese culture.
In Nakano, Japan, payments are primarily made with cash. Credit and debit cards are also widely accepted, especially in larger establishments. Mobile payment options such as Suica or Pasmo cards are increasingly popular for convenient and quick transactions.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Nakano.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Nakano, Japan is in spring (March to May) when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. The weather is mild and pleasant, making it a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
Summer (June to August) in Nakano can be hot and humid, with occasional rain showers. It's a good time to experience local festivals and events, but it can be crowded with tourists.
Autumn (September to November) brings cool and comfortable weather, with beautiful foliage colors. It's a great time for hiking and enjoying the autumn scenery.
Winter (December to February) can be cold in Nakano, with occasional snowfall. It's a quieter time to visit, and you can enjoy traditional winter activities like hot springs and winter illuminations.
Nakano at Night
Hiking in Nakano
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A popular hiking destination with scenic views and multiple trails suitable for different skill levels, approximately 40 minutes from Nakano.
Known for its beautiful hiking trails and towering cliffs, it offers both moderate and challenging routes. It's accessible via a train ride and cable car.
A series of hills offering a network of trails for hikers of all experience levels, perfect for a half-day hiking trip from Nakano.
Less crowded than other popular spots, Kuji Mountain provides a peaceful hiking experience with lush forests and panoramic views.
A larger national park with extensive hiking options, including forest trails, waterfalls, and rugged landscapes, located a bit further but well worth the trip.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Nakano through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Nakano by plane.
Located approximately 60 kilometers east of Nakano, Narita International Airport is one of the main international airports serving Tokyo and the surrounding regions.
Situated about 30 kilometers south of Nakano, Haneda Airport is closer to central Tokyo and serves as a major hub for both domestic and international flights.
Located around 400 kilometers west of Nakano, Kansai International Airport serves the Osaka area and hosts a variety of international flights.
Approximately 350 kilometers southwest of Nakano, Chubu Centrair International Airport serves the Nagoya area and is an important hub for international travel.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group, comprising the native population of Japan.
A significant minority group, often descendants of those who migrated during the Japanese occupation of Korea.
A growing demographic group, including both long-term residents and recent migrants.
This group includes Japanese-Brazilians and other Brazilians who have moved to Japan for work.
A notable community, mainly consisting of contract workers and their families.
Includes individuals from various countries, often professionals or students.
The Soul of Nakano
Discover the essence of Nakano through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is immensely popular in Japan, including Nakano, with many local teams and schools participating in leagues and tournaments.
Soccer has a strong following in Nakano, with community clubs and schools actively engaging in the sport.
Basketball enjoys popularity in schools and local leagues, often featuring in community sports events.
Various forms of martial arts, such as Judo and Karate, are practiced and celebrated in Nakano, reflecting Japan's cultural heritage.
Volleyball is commonly played in schools and clubs, fostering teamwork and community involvement among residents.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Nakano.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While many traditional Japanese dishes contain meat or fish-based broths, several restaurants in Nakano offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Look out for places like Ain Soph Ripple and T's Tantan for delightful plant-based meals.
Finding gluten-free options in Nakano may require some research, but establishments like Mr. Farmer and Brown Rice Canteen prioritize gluten-free offerings in their menus.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Nakano with these cultural adventures.
