A Secret Squirrel Forest in the Heart of Tokyo? 🐿️🌿
Looking for a magical escape just 30 minutes from Shinjuku? I’ve found a place in Kichijoji that feels like a Ghibli movie come to life: Inokashira Park Zoo! 🌳 ✨
This isn't just a zoo—it’s a lush sanctuary split into two beautiful areas, and the best part? You can breeze through both the Main Zoo and the Aquatic Life Park using THE TOKYO PASS! 🎟️🙌
Here’s why you’ll fall in love with this spot:
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The Squirrel Trail: Walk inside a giant enclosure where fluffy Japanese squirrels roam free! 🐿️ You’ll hear the "crunch-crunch" of walnuts as they zip past your feet. It’s pure therapy.
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Art meets Nature: Visit the Sculpture Garden to see masterpieces by Seibo Kitamura (the legend behind Nagasaki’s Peace Statue) tucked among the trees. 🎨 🔨
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Waterfront Wonders: Head over to the lakeside park to see graceful water birds gliding across the pond. It’s the perfect spot to slow down, enjoy the breeze, and watch them splash around! 🦆✨
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Insta-worthy Treats: You HAVE to try the "Japanese Squirrel Sundae" or the adorable "Elephant Bento." 🍦🐘 They are almost too cute to eat!
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Designer Souvenirs: Forget basic gifts! Pick up original goods designed by the zoo’s in-house designer or zookeeper-approved plushies. 🧸🛍️
Writter’s Tip: After the zoo, take a swan boat out on Inokashira Pond and grab some "face-painted" dango! 🍡🦢
Plus, the Ghibli Museum is just a short stroll away, making this the ultimate Kichijoji day trip. 🌈
*Information is current as of the date of posting. Please check our official website for the latest updates.
Location
1-17-6, Gotenyama, Musashino, Tokyo 180-0005
Direction:
JR Chuo Line, JR Sobu Line, or Keio Inokashira Line
From Kichijoji Station (Park Exit), walk approximately 10 minutes to Inokashira Park Zoo.
By Bus:
Odakyu Bus:
From Kichijoji Station (Park Exit), take a bus and get off at Bunkaen-mae stop.
The zoo is a short walk from the bus stop.