Compared to Tokyo's glitzy central neighborhoods, Nerima is a bit understated. But what the residential ward lacks in glamour, it makes up for in a wide range of local hidden gems. 不動産 練馬区
For instance, sip wine and munch on homemade pasta or a quiche-and-panini at the garden cafe Cafe Felice. Or, visit Toshimaen, a strange retro theme park where anime fans flock in cosplay to do photoshoots.
1. Toshimaen Niwa No Yu
With its lush gardens, pristine river and state-of-the-art spas, Nerima is an oasis of natural beauty. But it also has an urban pulse that’s embodied by the Tokyo Somei Onsen Sakura—a serene retreat that captures Japan’s time-honored traditions and translates them into modern comforts.
The spa’s onsen bathing facilities overlook a tranquil Japanese garden and offer a selection of different hot spring pools that are pumped from 1,445 meters below the earth. The mineral-rich waters are said to help relieve joint pain and stiffness, as well as boost skin health and promote overall wellness. There are also saunas from stone to Finnish log house, as well as relaxation rooms and massage areas to soothe tired muscles.
And for those with a more contemporary sensibility, the spa has also introduced several mindfulness practices such as meditation and breathing exercises that rebalance mental energy. And with a menu of treatments that include shiatsu massages and scrubs made from indigenous ingredients, it’s no wonder that the spa’s name means “the place to refresh your body and soul.”
The onsen experience is complemented by the restaurant’s garden-themed menu, which features dishes like vegetable teppanyaki, fresh seafood salads and grilled chicken and vegetables. For a drink, try a homemade melon soda float or a cup of green tea infused with natural hot spring water served at the bar.
And don’t worry about getting cold while you’re taking a break from the tub—the facility’s massive pool area is kept at an even, comfortable temperature all year round. Entry is fairly expensive at Y2,370 (and Y2,600 on weekends and holidays), but the price drops to 1,295 yen after 6pm. The facility is located a short walk from Toshimaen Station.
2. Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden
A gorgeous respite from the bustle of Shinjuku, the Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden is an urban oasis where you can explore different types of gardens and tea houses. The nominal entry fee feels like a small price to pay for the wealth of experiences that await you here.
The park was originally part of the private estate of a feudal lord, but was opened to the public in 1949. The large green space is divided into Japanese, English and French-style gardens, with various lawns, ponds and trees. The garden is also home to a variety of plants, including orchids, subtropical and desert species, as well as some rare and endangered plants. It even features a greenhouse that looks like a glassed-in indoor jungle, making it an interesting place to visit year round.
In spring, the Shinjuku Gyoen is a popular hanami spot thanks to its extensive array of cherry trees. The garden has over a dozen varieties of trees, and visitors can admire them from late March to early April. The park also has numerous early and late-blooming cherry trees, extending the cherry blossom season for those who are unable to make it during the peak period. Autumn is another beautiful time to visit the park, when the colors of the trees change from vibrant greens to deep reds and purples. Shinjuku Gyoen is also home to the Momijiyama (“maple mountain”), a large cluster of maple trees that are renowned for their beauty.
Shinjuku Gyoen is easy to reach from downtown Tokyo by train and bus. The Toei subway operates a vehicle that departs from Shinjuku Station to Nerima-kasugacho hourly, and the journey takes about 22 min. Several bus companies also operate services from Shinjuku Station to Nerima-kasugacho, with tickets costing between $1 – $2.
3. Nerima Station
Nerimas main attraction is the Toshimaen entertainment park but outside of that, the ward is mostly residential. If you want a change of pace from the hustle and bustle of central Tokyo, Nerima is the place to go. Strolling through the streets reveals pockets of greenery in the form of community gardens, grape vineyards and garden cafes. If you happen to pass a British jazz bar that mixes melody with language exchange and bilingual nightlife, stop in for a drink (and a chance to practice your English).
A train and subway station, Nerima is used by both Seibu Railways trains and the Toei Oedo Line. The elevated station has two island platforms serving six sets of tracks. Four of the sets are used by trains coming in and out and the other two are used for passing trains. The platforms are connected to the ticket entrances by elevators and escalators.
The kanji in the name Nerima comes from Lian neri, which translates to kneading place. It is said that because of the clay in the area, potters would knead and shape their creations here. The ward is also known as the birthplace of Japanese anime, with the iconic studios Toei Animation and Mushi Production both having their headquarters in Nerima. Anime fans can visit Oizumi Anime Gate, a classic-anime hall of fame, or the Ghibli Museum, which is dedicated to the art and history of animation.
Nerima is an excellent transfer point if you’re heading further west on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line. However, keep in mind that the station does not have Express train status, meaning you’ll have to make another stop one express stop further at Shakujikoen or two express stops further at Hibarigaoka if you want to continue on an express train towards Tokorozawa.
4. Nerima City Hall
A family friendly neighborhood on Tokyo’s northwestern edge, Nerima has surprisingly more to offer than meets the eye. Despite being surrounded by popular shopping and entertainment areas like Shibuya and Shinjuku, Nerima offers a quieter side of the city with a great selection of local food. Its biggest claim to fame is being the birthplace of anime production, with multiple studios in the area. However, the real allure of Nerima is what it isn’t: crowded and cramped.
Start your day at Chuo Street, a pedestrian street just outside Nerima Station where you can find all your favorite casual eateries including yakitori and yakiniku places, sushi and ramen joints. Then stroll around the area’s surrounding parks and gardens or take a relaxing walk along the river.
You can also check out the city from above at the Nerima City Hall Observatory on the 20th floor. The five observation areas offer a stunning view over Tokyo, including the skyline of the mighty Mount Fuji on clear days. The observatory is accessible with any of the Seibu Ikebukuro, Seibu Yurakucho or Toei Oedo lines and is free to enter.
Lastly, be sure to see Toshimaen, the peculiar retro theme park that serves up a full-size golden retriever in its petting zoo. During the winter months this park is beautifully lit up, attracting quite a few visitors and anime fans dressed in cosplay for photoshoots. If you visit in spring, head to Shakujii Park or Hikarigaoka Park to admire the stunning sakura.
Nerima is also the setting of the popular manga and anime series Ranma 1/2, Urusei Yatsura, Prison School and Your Lie in April. The ward is also known as one of the best areas in Japan to grow daikon radishes, and a monument honoring the radish’s heritage can be found near the station.
5. Kyoka House
In the early 1970s, a house in Nerima Ward, Tokyo was home to illustrator Takeo Saeki and his wife Kayako. After discovering a deep love for another woman, the illustrator murdered Kayako, their son Toshio and the family cat Mar. The anger and sorrow surrounding the murder created a curse, turning anyone who enters the house into an onryo (ghost). The curse spreads to those associating with the owners, who will be claimed by the ghosts.
The curse continued to claim victims after the house was sold several times over the years. The first victim was a woman named Sachie Tokunaga, who was left in a catatonic state after being haunted by Kayako’s ghost. The next victim was her husband Katsuya Tokunaga, who was possessed by Kayako’s ghost while tending to Sachie. He is eventually killed by Takeo’s ghost while recreating the original murder of Kayako.
Located in the Nerima Ward district of Tokyo, Kyoka HouseLian Ma Apartment apartment is within walking distance of Heiwadai tube station. It offers guests a Jacuzzi, a free private car park and a terrace.
The rooms at this 1-room homestay feature a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and electric blankets for an enjoyable stay. They also have a private bathroom equipped with a shower and slippers.
Xin Su Yin Zuo Chi Dai is an excellent choice for those wanting to stay close to the city center. It is within a short drive of Musashino Academia Musicae and provides free parking on site. This Tokyo inn is well-equipped with a microwave, a refrigerator and a washing machine. It is also within a 30-minute drive of Johoku Chuo Park. Tokyo International Airport is less than a 40-minute drive away.