Source: hirotomo t
If you are looking for a city where you can escape from the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, Itabashi is the perfect place for you. Less than 9 kilometres or 30 minutes by train, you will feel a completely different vibe in the gorgeous city of Itabashi. Here you will find the Top Things to Do in Itabashi that you must not miss!
1. Itabashi Fireworks
This fireworks display has been running for more than 50 years now. The local government decided to take a turn to make this festival more creative and entertaining by presenting a competition of the said event. There are roughly 11,000 fireworks expected to go off through the entire program which lasts for 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Information
- Venue: Itabashi Fireworks Festival Location
- Price: Unannounced (Tickets are required)
- How to get here: From Tokyo, take a train and get off at Nishidai train station
- Website: http://itabashihanabi.jp/info/info.htm
2. Onsen Resort
Your Japan trip wouldn’t be completed without going to an Onsen or the Hot Spring in English. Itabashi offers a relaxing, less tourists and charming Onsen. After a long walk around, go pamper your skin and enjoy the hot spring whilst it moist your body. Try Maenohara Onsen Sayano Yudokoro which is popular for its cleanliness and soba noodles.
Information
- Name: Maenohara Onsen Sayano Yudokoro
- Address: 3-41-1 Maenocho, Itabashi 174-0063
- Price: 830 Yen for Adults. Extra 200 Yen every weekend
- Access: From Shimurasakaue Station, go walk for around 10-15 minutes.
- Opening hour: 10.00-01.00
- Website: http://www.sayanoyudokoro.co.jp/english
3. Nakasendo Itabashi Bridge
This bridge isn’t that long, however, why is it so special? The name of the city Itabashi is named after this bridge; Itabashi means “The Plank Bridge”. It connects the Nakajuku and Itabashi, the river in between is called the Shakujii River. In 1180, Minamoto Yoritomo, who was an officer in charge of the army, stationed his troop by this bridge. It was a wooden bridge before, but now turned into a concrete one.
Information
- Address: Nakajuku, Itabashi 173-0005
- Price: Free
4. Dagashiya Game Museum
Japan has always been popular for its video games, what makes your trip to Japan extra special? Don’t miss the chance and try these local video games right here in this museum. This place will be a nostalgic moment for you, the video games are pretty outdated and old fashion designs, nevertheless, it will surely make you feel like a child again.
Information
- Address: 17-8 Miyamotocho, Itabashi 174-0054
- Price: 200 Yen
- Opening hour: Weekend and Holidays: 10.00-19.00 / Weekdays: 14.00 – 19.00
5. Jorenji Temple
Jikaku Daishi was a great Buddhist teacher, who erected this temple in the year 858. This temple is chosen for its peaceful and calm surroundings. This is Japan’s third biggest Buddha in the country. Standing 13 metres, this Buddha attracts not only local but also foreign tourists.
Information
- Address: 5-28 Akatsuka, Itabashi 175-0092
- How to get here: You can easily reach this place by foot (around 20-30 minutes from Toei Mita line Nishi-Takashimadaira station) or 20 minutes walk from Narimasu Station
6. Higashi Itabashi Park Children’s Zoo
This free of admission zoo could be enjoyable for small children and even senior citizens. In this park, you can watch the animals running freely, you also feed them. The fact that this is nesting right in the best neighbourhood, it gives a great ambiance of friendliness and comfort.
Information
- Address: Higashi-Itabashi Park, 3-50-1 Itabashi, Itabashi-ku
- How to get here: Exiting the train station it would be a great idea to take a taxi especially for the first timer. You can also walk which is 8 minutes from Itabashi-kuyakushomae Station on the Toei Mita Line
- Opening Hours: 9.00 – 16.00
7. Shakuji River Green Road
Are you a huge fan of cherry blossoms? This place wouldn’t disappoint you! Only a small crowd is scattered through the place, thus, you will have a great stroll while admiring the grand beauty of the cherry blossom trees.
Information
- Location: 28 Honcho, Itabashi 173-000
- Admission: Free
- Extra Tips: Spring is the best time to visit. Rent a bicycle to go around the place.
8. Happy Road Oyama Shotengai
If you are keen to feel the local Japanese shopping vibe, this place is perfect. Walk around and admire the road that will satisfy you of Japanese products and local dishes. This long street is filled with other locals and even foreigners who are either here for shopping or even just a window shopping.
Information
- Address: 49-1 Oyamacho, Itabashi 173-0023
9. Akatsuka Botanical Gardens
A botanical garden that even residential locals enjoys, they spend their morning walk or afternoon break here. This garden contains over 600 varieties of trees and plants. In addition, some medical herbs are also scattered throughout the area. The information about various plants and trees are available around the garden. In April you will get the chance to see plenty of cherry blossoms here.
Information
- Address: 5-17-14 Akatsuka, Itabashi 175-0092
- Opening Hours: Open daily
10. Uemura Adventure Museum
Are you a history geek or a documentary fan? This place will satisfy your curiosity, it is established in 1992. This museum is built to commemorate Mr. Naomi Uemura. The documentary for his climbing of the famous McKinley is also highlighted. You will find his video clips, the duplication of the dog sled, books and travel guides which he used to his adventure. On the ground floor, it is designed as a library whilst you can see the display about the climbing on the first floor.
Information
- Address: 2-21-5 HasuneItabashi-ku 174-0046
- Opening Hours: 10.00-18.00
- Website: http://www.uemura-museum-tokyo.jp
Have a good trip and travel!
