Want to Visit Right Away?! 7 Recommended Tourist Spots in Asagaya

Asagaya, located between Koenji and Ogikubo in Suginami Ward, is known for its deep tourist attractions. While Koenji and Ogikubo are famous for their unique spots, Asagaya holds its own! The area is filled with attractions that showcase subcultures like anime and film. Whether you’re an anime fan or a movie enthusiast, there’s plenty to enjoy. As you walk around, you’ll often find interesting spots that make you want to stop by. Here are seven must-visit tourist spots in the subculture town of Asagaya!

1. Mr. A's Garden

About a 15-minute walk from JR Asagaya Station is a park called "Mr. A's Garden." "A" refers to everyone who visits the park. It’s a place that evokes a sense of nostalgia for anyone who comes here. Mr. A’s Garden was introduced in Hayao Miyazaki's book "The House Where Totoro Lives," which attracted many Ghibli fans and tourists.

The small, charming buildings and lush nature make you feel as if you’ve stepped into the fantastical world of Ghibli. If you’re exploring subculture in Asagaya, Mr. A’s Garden is a must-see!

2. Asagaya Anime Street

Suginami Ward is a sacred place for anime, home to various production studios. This is where Asagaya Anime Street was created, stretching under the elevated tracks from Asagaya Station to Koenji Station.

From stores where you can enjoy capsule toys to places where you can experience cosplay, the ways to have fun are up to you! Asagaya Anime Street is a place where anime fans can interact with voice actors and creators, fostering new anime culture. Just walking around provides a taste of Asagaya’s unique tourism.

3. Laputa Asagaya

Asagaya, a town filled with subculture charm, is home to the mysterious building known as Laputa Asagaya. Inside, you'll find the Samsa theater, the Laputa cinema, and the French restaurant Yamaneko-ken.

The Laputa cinema has only 50 seats, making for a cozy viewing experience. It screens somewhat niche films, making it ideal for those looking to broaden their film knowledge. Conveniently located near Asagaya Station, it’s a must-visit for anyone wanting to enjoy theater and cinema during their time in Asagaya.

4. Nakasugi Street

Nakasugi Street stretches north and south through Asagaya, running from the Suginami Ward Office to Nakamurabashi. It is always bustling with various restaurants and shops.

As a result, Nakasugi Street is home to many tourist spots. One popular destination is Yeson-in, a power spot established during the Muromachi period. There are also intriguing places like Russian souvenir shops that invite visitors to stop by. From spring to autumn, the zelkova tree-lined avenue creates a tunnel-like atmosphere, which is a highlight. Additionally, events such as jazz performances and morning markets selling fresh vegetables are held along Nakasugi Street. When visiting Asagaya, you won't want to miss Nakasugi Street.

5. Asagaya Shinmeigu

Asagaya Shinmeigu has been a significant shrine in Asagaya since the Kamakura period. It was featured in the "Edo Meisho Zue," which introduced popular sightseeing spots in Edo during the Edo period.

The shrine grounds feature a stage that hosts a variety of performances, including traditional arts like Noh as well as jazz. Recently, the "Heisei Major Renovation" was completed, allowing visitors to stroll through the brand-new grounds. If you’re looking to visit a power spot in Asagaya, Asagaya Shinmeigu is a must-see.

6. Asagaya Pearl Center

In the early Showa period, a shopping district was established in Asagaya. This shopping district was devastated during World War II but was revived along with post-war reconstruction. It has since become a large shopping area extending from the station. This is what we now call Asagaya Pearl Center.

Asagaya Pearl Center is famous for hosting the "Asagaya Tanabata Matsuri" every year! It’s a large festival considered one of Japan's three major Tanabata festivals. The entire shopping street is adorned with colorful decorations, and popular character streamers are hung, making it a hit among visiting tourists. With over 60 years of history, the Tanabata festival is a recommended event for summer tourism in Asagaya. Be sure to visit!

7. Mabashi Inari Shrine

Mabashi Inari Shrine was established during the Kamakura period. The name "Mabashi" refers to the local area. However, the name was discontinued in 1955 due to residential address changes. Nonetheless, to preserve the name, the shrine that was previously called Inari Shrine was renamed "Mabashi Inari Shrine."

The highlight of Mabashi Inari Shrine is its torii gate, which features the rare "Double Dragon Torii" with dragons carved on the pillars! Touching the magnificent ascending dragon is said to bring good fortune in work. Since only three Double Dragon Torii gates exist in Tokyo, it is considered one of the "Three Torii Gates of Tokyo." Additionally, it can be accessed not only from Asagaya Station but also from Koenji Station and Shin-Koenji Station. It’s a recommended tourist spot for those exploring power spots in Suginami.

Summary

There are tourist spots where you can experience the world of anime and facilities where you can enjoy movies at your leisure. There are also historical sites, power spots, and shopping streets that offer unique experiences. Furthermore, there are stylish restaurants and cafes, making lunchtime a special moment.

In fact, Asagaya was known as a haven for famous writers like Yasunari Kawabata and Osamu Dazai, earning the nickname "Asagaya Writers' Village." Today, it continues to shine as a cultural hub, just as it did in the past. A visit to Asagaya is definitely worthwhile!

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Want to Visit Right Away?! 7 Recommended Tourist Spots in Asagaya