Inokashira Park, located in the lively Kichijoji area of Tokyo, is a beautiful retreat known for its vibrant autumn foliage. From mid-November to early December, the park’s diverse trees, including Japanese maples and ginkgo, create a stunning display of red, yellow, and gold. Visitors can enjoy the view from the park’s famous boat rides on Inokashira Pond or explore the scenic pathways that lead to Benzaiten Shrine. The park’s peaceful ambiance and convenient location make it a top destination for autumn leaf viewing in Tokyo.
Overview
| Place | Inokashira Park (井の頭公園) |
| Best Viewing Time | Late November to Early December |
| Festival | None |
| Illumination | None |
| Foliage | Japanese maple, maple, katsura tree, bald cypress, ginkgo tree. |
| Business Hours | Always open (boat rentals: 10:00 AM to 4:30 PM) |
| Admission | Free (boat rides range from ¥500-800) |
| Related Site | The Bureau of Construction |
Why Inokashira Park is Worth Visiting in Autumn
- Autumn Foliage: The park’s 600 trees burst into vibrant shades of red, yellow, and gold.
- Inokashira Pond Boat Rides: Enjoy the autumn reflections on the pond while riding swan-shaped pedal boats or rowboats.
- Benzaiten Shrine Views: The shrine provides an iconic photo spot, framed by colorful autumn leaves.
- Ghibli Museum Proximity: Combine nature and art with a visit to the famous Ghibli Museum next door.
Inokashira Park Fall Foliage
Inokashira Park transforms into a stunning autumn landscape from mid-November to early December. The park’s variety of trees, including Japanese maples, ginkgo, katsura, and bald cypress, creates a vibrant palette of red, orange, and gold that draws visitors from across Tokyo. The most iconic views are around Inokashira Pond, where the colorful foliage reflects on the water, creating a picture-perfect scene. Strolling along the tree-lined pathways or renting a boat to see the reflection of the autumn leaves on the pond offers an immersive experience of the season’s beauty. One of the most picturesque areas is around Benzaiten Shrine, where the crimson leaves beautifully frame the shrine’s traditional architecture. For those who prefer quieter moments, benches along the water provide ideal spots to relax and admire the seasonal display.
Inokashira Park Facilities & Amenities
Inokashira Park offers a variety of facilities and amenities, making it a convenient and comfortable destination for all visitors. The park features several boat rental options, including swan-shaped pedal boats, cycle boats, and rowboats, allowing visitors to explore the scenic pond. Walking trails wind through the park, including a 3.5-kilometer loop ideal for leisurely strolls or jogs. The park also has sports facilities, including tennis courts, a baseball field, and an outdoor stage that hosts performances and events throughout the year. Families can enjoy the Inokashira Park Zoo, a small zoo with native Japanese species, as well as the adjacent aquatic life park. Additionally, the park has public restrooms, vending machines, and numerous benches, ensuring comfort for visitors. For those looking to spend a peaceful afternoon, picnic areas and open green spaces offer plenty of room to relax and enjoy the park’s natural beauty.
Dining Options
Inokashira Park and the nearby Kichijoji area provide a wide range of dining options to suit different tastes and preferences. Inside the park, visitors can stop at INOKA, a cafe offering light snacks such as French fries, karaage fried chicken, and its specialty tofu donuts available in various flavors like matcha and cinnamon. Cafe du Lievre, located on the park’s edge, serves French-inspired meals and is an ideal spot for brunch or a casual afternoon meal. Just a short walk away, the famous Iseya Sohonten offers delicious yakitori and other Japanese dishes, while Kichijoji’s Harmonica Alley features a variety of small eateries and izakayas, perfect for an authentic and nostalgic dining experience.
Travel Tips
- Best Time to Visit: Visit during mid to late November for peak foliage. Early mornings are ideal for avoiding crowds.
- Boat Rides: Try the swan boats for a fun experience, but beware of the local superstition that couples who ride together may break up!
- Nearby Ghibli Museum: Book tickets in advance if planning to visit, as they sell out quickly.
- Dining Options in Kichijoji: Explore Kichijoji’s Harmonica Alley for unique, small eateries.
How to Get to Inokashira Park
Inokashira Park is easily accessible from central Tokyo by public transportation. The most convenient way to reach the park is by taking the JR Chuo Line to Kichijoji Station, from where it is a short 5-minute walk to the park’s entrance. Alternatively, visitors can take the Keio Inokashira Line and get off at Inokashira-Koen Station, which is only a minute’s walk from the park. For those traveling by car, toll parking lots are available nearby, but due to limited parking and potential traffic, public transportation is highly recommended, especially during weekends and peak seasons like autumn foliage or cherry blossom viewing.
