Home   >   Day Trippers   >   Daytrip: Why Kichijoji?

Daytrip: Why Kichijoji?

By on August 27, 2018

When the weather is perfect and the whole brood is relaxed, who needs a big escape?  

How about a trip to Costco?  The kids will hate us. Not even the pizza works these days. Ikea is a no no and the clock is already ticking so it’s got to be in the city.

It’s time to whip out the Sunday bucket list and on top of the list is …  Kichijoji.

Just a hop skip and a jump away, Kichijoji has a warm glow about it, there is something that you can`t quite put your finger on. It feels familiar yet strange at the same time – Tokyo`s very own ‘Never-Never -Land’ spreading out in all directions from the station.
 
To the north, cozy shops jostle for your attention amidst the bustling shopping arcades and the notorious Harmonica Yokocho area with it’s profusion of global dining establishments. It`s best just to go with the flow. There are shops crammed with musical instruments,  designer stores and the trendiest pet boutiques imaginable.
To the south, pass beside the Marui department store and through the sea of crepes, cafes, second hand clothing stores, ethnic bazaars and dog friendly ‘zacca’ establishments, down to Inokashira park; home to  performers, lovers and yes you guessed it, very cute dogs.

It`s almost too perfect. People walking around reciting lines to the trees, eccentric  performers reading one act manga to adhoring  fans and performing clowns stretching ballons for anyone who shows a passing interest. People are happy, genuinely happy.  You can’t help but be touched by the feel good vibe.

Take a picnic; grab a few yakitori or grilled  bratwurst from near the steps to the Inokashira park. Rent a swan pedalo or show your prowess with the oars. The main kiosk in the park serves a mouth watering selection of unusual flavoured icecreams. Wander around the temple dedicated to the vengeful goddess who casts her evil spell on the courting couples, stare at the basking turtles, feed the ducks and giant carp if it`s still permitted and then grab a bite yourself in one of the ramshackle noodle joints or the delightful  Pepacafe hidden amongst the trees.

The Ghibli museum is in the area but requires advance tickets so head for the small zoo instead; not everyone’s cup of tea admittedly but the Yaku deer look happy enough. Walk through the Squirrel enclosure, the jaded botanical gardens and for the smaller tribe members, there is a fairground tamer than the guinea pigs in the petting zoo. As  twilight draws in and the reality of unfinished homework beckons, drop into Yusawaya, the ultimate craft superstore in the station building and then it’s time to  call it  a day.

Kichijoji might be a well worn track for some but it always delivers.

About TF Tribe