Kichijoji
Kichijoji is convenient and easy to get to from Shinjuku or Shibuya. Even though the district is crowded on weekends, it retains a relaxed atmosphere. It is very popular among both the young and old, women and men.
| (1)Harmonica Yokocho | (2)Yodobashi Camera, Kichijoji | (3)Taisho, Showa, Nakamichi-dori Street | (4)Inokashira Park |
Kichijoji Map
Harmonica Yokocho
Bars, home sundries shops, local products shops, and so on. There are many shops lining the narrow alleys. The streets are pleasant, where both the new and the old co-exist.
Sunroad/Dia Arcade
The Sunroad shopping mall connects the north exit of the station and Itsukaichikaido Avenue with a wide range of stores from clothing shops to restaurants. Especially, there are many drug stores and shoe stores hustling to attract customers. The Dia Arcade leads to the Tokyu Department store and, after reforming in 2009, became brighter and easier for walking around. "Sato Meat Shop" where many line up to get very popular croquettes of minced meat, and other well-known Kichijoji shops are there.
Yodobashi Camera, Kichijoji
This shop opened on the street by the north exit of the station in 2007. The latest digital cameras and watches and all kinds of electric appliances are available in the 9-story building (1 basement and 8 floors above). There are also clothing shops, bead shops, and restaurants . The area behind Yodobashi is becoming very chic with stylish bars and ethnic food restaurants.
Taisho, Showa, Nakamichi-dori Street
The area is called "the back of Tokyu" because it is behind Tokyu Department store. The area is crowded with home sundries shops, food shops, cafés, clothing and accessory shops, and others. Every store is unique and has the "Kichijoji" atmosphere.
(map:A) Village Vanguard
Village Vanguard is referred to as an "exciting book store." Not only books and magazines, but home sundries , fashion goods, CDs and many other things are on display for sale. You can find anything you might want for a souvenir or present here.
(map:B) Soy Bean Farm
Soy Bean Farm specializes in miso. You can enjoy foods that are good for mental and physical health. All kinds of tasty miso from all over Japan are sold by weight.
(map:C) Petit
Petit is filled with dear old toys, and it is a pleasure just to see them.
(map:D) Free Design
This is an imported goods shop where various goods from around the world are sold.
Café + Curry
If you yearning to eat curry, the cafés in the back of Tokyu are a must. the original curry roux of "Mamezo" after simmering for three days is very rich and spicy. "Musashino Bunko " has a chic atmosphere with dramatic black interior decor, and its potato and chicken curry, is delicious.
Inokashira Park
Inokashira Park is a 5-minute walk from the Koenguchi Exit of Kichijoji Station. The vast park abounds with nature. There is a pond in the center of the park and very pleasant to spend a peaceful, lazy time floating around on a boat. On the weekends, street performers and songsters provide free entertainment. In spring, cherry trees can be seen in bloom all around the park and many people enjoy viewing the blossoms. At Inokashira Park Zoo, the Asian Elephant "Hanako" and other animals welcome you. In the southern part of the park, you will find the popular "Ghibli Museum, Mitaka." (Reservations are necessary.)
"Going a bit farther…Shimo-Kitazawa"
When you go toward Shibuya on the Inokashira Line, it's worthwhile to get off at Shimo-Kitazawa along the way. There you will find the Honda Theater, the mecca of Japanese drama, live houses, and clothing shops. The area is popular among young people, especially because of the many shops selling stylish fashion goods.
Gourmet Guide
(map:a) Iseya
Iseya is a yakitori (grilled chicken on skewers) restaurant with a long history. The reasonable price of JY 80 per stick makes the shop very popular. The main shop was reformed in 2008 and become even easier to enter. The Park shop has maintained its original appearance and is the best place to get something to eat after walking around the park.
(map:b) Bistro epices
Bistro epices mainly serves wine and dishes from an a la carte menu. Its retreat - like, casual atmosphere is attractive. They try their best to honor special requests other than items on the menu. One recommendation is the reasonably priced lunch.
(map:c) Hammock Café Mahikamano
This is a café with a gallery and unique hammock seating. You can enjoy their original coffee from freshly roasted beans or herb tea as well as viewing the exhibited artworks and events.