Discover Waseda Beyond the University! A Guide to Must-Visit Tourist Spots

Waseda, known as one of Tokyo’s quintessential student neighborhoods, is a vibrant area filled with nostalgic eateries catering to students, maintaining the charm of its university roots. Iconic landmarks like the Shigenobu Okuma statue, Okuma Garden, and Okuma Auditorium make Waseda University a destination in its own right. But Waseda has so much more to offer! In this guide, we’ll explore four top tourist attractions in the Waseda area that are perfect for your next visit.

1. Anahachiman Shrine

Just a short walk from Waseda University, Anahachiman Shrine is a beloved destination renowned for its blessings of career success, fortune, and business prosperity. The shrine earned its name after a gilded bronze statue was unearthed from a cave beside it during the early Edo period.

For centuries, it has been a sanctuary for parents seeking divine help for their children’s nighttime crying. Its fame is further amplified by the seasonal "Ichiyo Raifuku" talisman, offered exclusively from the winter solstice to Setsubun in spring. This talisman, symbolizing the idea that "good follows bad," is now widely sought after as a charm for enhancing financial luck. Its convenient location near Waseda University makes it an easy and worthwhile stop.

2. Shin-Edogawa Park & Eisei Bunko Museum

Across the Kanda River from Waseda University lies Shin-Edogawa Park, a tranquil escape rich in history and beauty. Once part of the Hosokawa family’s Edo-period lower residence, this park remains a hidden treasure, even among Waseda students.

The park features a beautifully preserved strolling garden with a pond nourished by natural spring water, evoking the refined charm of a daimyo garden. Visitors can relax at Shoseikaku, a restored cultural space originally used for scholarly pursuits by the Hosokawa family. Nearby, the Eisei Bunko Museum offers an exceptional opportunity to view artistic and historical artifacts passed down through generations of the Hosokawa clan, ensuring every visit unveils something remarkable.

3. Tokyo Cathedral St. Mary’s Cathedral

As you stroll along the small path beside Shin-Edogawa Park toward Mejiro Street, a striking white tower piercing the sky will appear on your right. This is the "Tokyo Cathedral St. Mary’s Cathedral." With its sleek and innovative design, it might not look like a traditional church, but it is indeed a bona fide Catholic cathedral. Known also as the "Sekiguchi Catholic Church," this masterpiece was designed by world-renowned architect Kenzo Tange and completed in 1964.

The interior is just as remarkable. With its walls of exposed concrete—a hallmark of designer buildings—it manages to exude warmth and serenity, creating a peaceful atmosphere. Open for free visits, it’s a must-see destination during your Waseda sightseeing itinerary.

4. Natsume Soseki Historical Sites Tour

Waseda is famous as the area where literary giant Natsume Soseki spent both his early years and his final days. In Kikuicho, located just south of Waseda Station on the Tokyo Metro Tozai Line, you’ll find a monument marking his birthplace. The site of "Soseki Sanbo," where he lived for around nine years until his passing, is now Soseki Park, a historic site designated by Shinjuku City.

Waseda is filled with landmarks connected to Soseki! Right next to Soseki Park is the "Soseki Sanbo Memorial Museum," where you can explore his life and works. With a "Soseki Walking Map" in hand, why not enjoy a literary stroll through the area? Fun fact: Soseki was not a Waseda University graduate but an alumnus of what is now the University of Tokyo.

◎ Summary

Did you discover the many charms of Waseda beyond its university? From historical landmarks dating back to the Edo period to modernist architectural gems, Waseda has plenty of spots worth visiting!