Things To Do
in Tokorozawa

Tokorozawa, Japan is a serene city located in Saitama Prefecture, known for its lush parks and proximity to Tokyo. The city offers a blend of urban conveniences and natural beauty, making it an ideal getaway for both locals and tourists. With its rich history and modern amenities, Tokorozawa is a hub for outdoor activities and cultural experiences.

The city is also famous for its aviation history, being the site of Japan's first civil airport.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Exploring Nature and Culture
morning
:

Start your day with a visit to Tokorozawa Sakura Town, a cultural complex featuring art galleries and shops dedicated to books and crafts. Enjoy a leisurely stroll through the beautiful Sakura Park nearby.

afternoon
:

Head to the Tokorozawa Aviation Memorial Park to learn about the city's aviation history and take in panoramic views of the surrounding area. Have lunch at a local café serving traditional Japanese dishes.

evening
:

Dine at a well-known izakaya (Japanese pub) where you can experience a variety of local dishes and drinks. End your day with a peaceful walk along the Sayama Lake.

day 2
Day 2: Urban Adventures and Relaxation
morning
:

Visit the Tokorozawa City Museum to delve into the local history and culture. Explore the nearby parks or take a morning bike ride around the city.

afternoon
:

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at a popular ramen shop and then spend the afternoon at the Tokorozawa Zoo, which is home to various species and offers interactive experiences.

evening
:

Experience the nightlife at a local bar or karaoke spot, where you can mingle with locals and other travelers. Cap off the night with a dessert from a nearby pastry shop.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍜Ramen Meal$8
Coffee$3
🍣Sushi Platter$15
🍧Dessert$5
🚇Train Ticket$2

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Beautiful natural scenery and parks.
  • Rich cultural experiences and local history.
  • Proximity to Tokyo for easy day trips.
  • Limited nightlife compared to larger cities.
  • Some language barriers for non-Japanese speakers.
  • Public transportation can be less frequent late at night.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me/Sorry
  • "トイレはどこですか?" - Where is the restroom?
  • "おいしい" - Delicious

Places to Visit in Tokorozawa

Visit one of these nice places.

Sayama Lake

A scenic spot perfect for capturing tranquil waters and lush greenery, especially during sunset.

Tokorozawa Aviation Memorial Park

Features historical aircraft and beautiful gardens, offering diverse photo opportunities.

Sakura Park

Famous for cherry blossoms in spring, this park provides stunning views and ample photography spots.

Culinary Guide

Food in Tokorozawa

Tokorozawa offers a delightful mix of traditional and modern Japanese cuisine, making it a gastronomic haven for food enthusiasts.

Tokorozawa Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Soba Noodles

Buckwheat noodles served either chilled with a dipping sauce or hot in a broth, often topped with green onions.

Must-Try!

Katsu Curry

A comforting dish of breaded pork cutlet served with Japanese curry and rice.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Tokorozawa Market

A vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, local snacks, and handmade goods.

Street Food Stalls

Various stalls around parks selling yakitori (grilled chicken skewers), taiyaki (fish-shaped pastries), and more.

Climate Guide

Weather

Tokorozawa has a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. Winters (December to February) can be cold, averaging around 2°C (36°F), with occasional snow. Summers (June to August) are warm and humid, with temperatures ranging from 25°C to 30°C (77°F to 86°F). Spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) are mild and pleasant, ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Respect Personal Space

Maintain a respectful distance in social settings and be mindful of noise levels.

Shoes Off Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone's home or certain traditional accommodations.

Polite Greetings

A bow is a common form of greeting; a simple 'Arigato' (thank you) is appreciated.

Safety Guide

Safety

Tokorozawa is generally very safe for travelers, with low crime rates. However, as in any urban area, it is wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Emergency services can be reached by dialing 110 for police and 119 for fire and medical emergencies.

Tipping in Tokorozawa

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan; excellent service is expected and included.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely accepted, but many places also accept credit cards and mobile payments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Enjoy cherry blossoms in full bloom; parks are vibrant with colors and festivals are held.

Summer

Expect warm weather, ideal for outdoor activities, but be prepared for occasional rain.

Autumn

Witness beautiful fall foliage; perfect for hiking and enjoying the cooler temperatures.

Winter

Cold weather with occasional snowfall; cozy indoor activities and illuminations can be enjoyed.

Nightlife Guide

Tokorozawa at Night

The nightlife in Tokorozawa is vibrant yet relaxed, with a selection of izakayas, bars, and karaoke spots. Locals enjoy unwinding after work with friends over drinks and food, making for a social atmosphere. Although not as bustling as Tokyo, the nightlife offers a unique glimpse into Japanese culture, often featuring live music and themed bars.

Hiking in Tokorozawa

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Hikawa Shrine Trail

A scenic trail that leads to an ancient shrine, offering a blend of nature and spirituality.

Sayama Hills Trails

Various trails with varying difficulty levels, showcasing beautiful landscapes and rich biodiversity.

Airports

How to reach Tokorozawa by plane.

Haneda Airport

Approximately 50 km from Tokorozawa, Haneda is a major international airport offering numerous domestic and international flights.

Getting Around

Walkability

Tokorozawa is relatively walkable, especially in urban areas and around parks. Sidewalks are generally well-maintained, and pedestrian crossings are common. However, some areas may require a short drive or use of public transport to access attractions.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Families

Many families reside in Tokorozawa due to its parks and good schools, contributing to a community-oriented atmosphere.

Young Professionals

With easy access to Tokyo, young professionals often commute for work, creating a blend of urban and suburban lifestyles.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

A beloved sport in Japan, with local teams and games attracting enthusiastic crowds.

Soccer

Popular among youth, with several local clubs and community events promoting the sport.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Tokorozawa can be busy during peak hours, especially near train stations and shopping areas. Public transportation is efficient, with frequent train services connecting to Tokyo and other cities. Biking and walking are also popular modes of transport for short distances.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Tokorozawa.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

Many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes; however, be sure to ask about dashi (fish stock) in broths.

Gluten-Free Choices

While gluten-free options may be limited, soba noodles made from 100% buckwheat are a good choice.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Healthcare in Tokorozawa is of high quality, with numerous hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services are efficient, and many staff members speak basic English. Travelers should ensure they have appropriate health insurance for access to medical services.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide