Kunitachi and Tachikawa sit between the lively city center and the nature-rich Okutama area. About 30 minutes from Shinjuku on the JR Chuo Line, they’re easy to reach and offer the best of both worlds—an appealing mix of energy and calm. Local writer S.Y., who has lived here for years, shares her favorite spots in the area.
Kunitachi Station Area: Stroll Scenic Tree-Lined Streets and One-of-a-Kind Shops
Centered on the tree-lined boulevard stretching south from the station, called “Daigaku-dori,” Kunitachi is dotted with stylish shops and cafes. In late March to early April, the avenue is framed by cherry blossoms, and it’s also known for ginkgo trees from late November to early December. The triangular-roof building in front of the station recreates the former station building and now houses a tourist information center. And Kunitachi’s beloved mascot, “Kuni-nyan,” is adorable!
Ⓒ国立市観光まちづくり協会承認2602-1
昔の駅舎を復元
駅の南口からまっすぐにのびる桜の並木道
┃Recommended Spots
GURIRIN CAFÉ
A cafe with cherry trees just outside its large windows, offering beautiful views throughout the year. From healthy lunch options to irresistibly cute sweets, you can enjoy the owner’s proud signature creations, all developed in-house.
Access: JR Kunitachi Sta. South Exit→1 min walk
Opening hours: 11:00–20:00
Closed on Tuesdays
窓から桜が見える窓際席もおすすめ
季節のスイーツで一息
Antique John
An antique kimono shop located along Daigaku-dori. In addition to kimono, it also carries small Japanese goods like tenugui hand towels, making it a perfect place to look for unique souvenirs.
Access: JR Kunitachi Sta. South Exit→10 min walk
Opening hours: 11:30–18:30
Closed on Tuesdays, Wednesdays
趣のある外観に引き込まれそう
手ぬぐい
アンティーク食器類
アンティーク着物も扱っています
Tachikawa Station Area: A Lively Hub for Nature Shopping, and Great Food
Tachikawa is packed with shopping complexes and restaurants, so there’s plenty to keep you entertained all day. It’s not just lively, either. There are also many green, relaxing spots where you can slow down and unwind.
充実した駅前
緑広がる道でリラックスタイムを
┃Recommended Spots
GREEN SPRINGS
A greenery-filled complex built around the concept of “Well-Being,” always bright with seasonal flowers. It offers restaurants using local ingredients, including vegan options, plus public art throughout the site. It’s also home to PLAY! MUSEUM, an art museum themed around “pictures and words,” and SORANO HOTEL, an urban resort-style hotel.
Access: JR Tachikawa Sta. North Exist→8 min walk
Opening hours & Closed: Varies depending on the store
複合施設「GREEN SPRINGS」
開放的な都会の中のプール
都会のオアシス ビオトープ
Showa Kinen Park
A popular park within walking distance of GREEN SPRINGS. Its vast grounds are home to a variety of areas where seasonal plants can be enjoyed throughout the year. In spring, cherry blossoms, tulips, nemophila, and Shirley poppies are all at their best.
Access: JR Tachikawa Sta. North Exit→10 min walk
Opening hours: 9:30–17:00 (Varies depending on the season)
Closed on January 1, December 31 (For other closed days and the Emperor Showa Memorial Museum, please check the official website)
Entrance fee: Adult: 450 yen
カラフルで鮮やかなチューリップガーデン
真っ赤なシャーレーポピー
一面に広がるネモフィラ
満開の桜の園
Ramen Square
Tachikawa is a major ramen hotspot. If you’re not sure where to go, head to this facility, which brings together a wide range of ramen shops from across Japan. You can enjoy authentic regional specialties, and every shop offers a kids’ menu—making it family-friendly, too.
Access: JR Tachikawa Sta. South Exit→2 min walk / Tachikawa-Minami Sta. (Tama Monorail)→1 min walk
Opening hours: Mon–Sat: 11:00–23:00 / Sun 11:00–22:00 (If Sunday falls the day before a public holiday, it’s open until 11:00 p.m.; on the last day of a long weekend, it’s open until 10:00 p.m.)
Open 365 days
