21 Sightseeing Spots in Chofu You May Not Know About

Located almost in the center of Tokyo, Chofu City has much to offer. What comes to mind when you think of Chofu? Perhaps Jindaiji Temple, GeGeGe no Kitaro, the Keio Line, or FC Tokyo? In fact, there are numerous reasons why people are drawn to Chofu. The relaxed atmosphere and lush greenery along the Keio Line make it an ideal place for leisurely sightseeing. Beyond Jindaiji Temple, we’ll introduce you to Chofu's hidden gems that you may not know about.

1. Jindaiji Temple

Jindaiji Temple is a must-visit attraction in Chofu. The temple grounds, rich in greenery, are known as one of the most soothing spots in the country, drawing numerous visitors.

One of the main attractions is the approach to the temple, lined with well-known soba noodle shops, famous nationwide.

There is a particularly charming soba restaurant featuring a large waterwheel that gives off a quaint atmosphere, making it hard to believe you're still in Tokyo. Strolling while enjoying a skewer of soba dango (dumplings made with buckwheat flour) is highly recommended.

The Daruma Doll Fair, held every spring at Jindaiji, is also notable as one of the "Three Great Daruma Fairs of Japan." The sight of rows of bright red lucky daruma dolls is said to bring good fortune.

2. Kitaro Chaya

Kitaro Chaya stands out along the approach to Jindaiji Temple. Just a step away from the Jindaiji bus stop, you’ll be greeted by Kitaro and Nezumi Otoko. Chofu is famously the town where Shigeru Mizuki, the creator of GeGeGe no Kitaro, once lived. At Kitaro Chaya, visitors can fully immerse themselves in the yokai (spirit) world crafted by Mizuki.

The menu features whimsical items such as dumplings inspired by Medama-Oyaji (Eyeball Father). Guests can sit on the "Nurikabe Bench," enjoy treats, and take photos with the yokai characters—there's fun for everyone. The tea house also includes a gallery dedicated to Mizuki's works, allowing for a deeper appreciation of his artistry.

3. Jindai Botanical Gardens

Located in the Jindaiji area, this botanical garden is one of Tokyo’s top plant venues. It’s especially popular in the spring as a spot for viewing plum and cherry blossoms. The rose garden boasts one of the largest selections of varieties in Tokyo, with seasonal Rose Festivals held in spring and autumn.

The symmetrically planted roses create stunning views whether seen up close or from a distance.

An impressive section of the gardens features a mass planting of azaleas that bloom in a range of colors around the central pond. The garden also includes a sprawling lawn area surrounded by greenery, making it a comprehensive haven for plant lovers. With over 100,000 plants in bloom year-round, it is a must-visit destination for nature enthusiasts

4. Chofu Aerospace Center

You might not immediately associate Chofu with aerospace, but it is home to a research and development facility of the renowned JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency). The exhibition area is divided into an Aviation Zone and a Space Zone, offering unique exhibits and special experiences that can only be found here.

The "Space Mission Simulator" allows visitors to simulate flights to the moon or a space station, and you can even step into the cockpit of an actual aircraft. Weekdays are generally less crowded, making it an ideal time to visit. This hidden gem is not only exciting for children but also thrilling for adults.

5. Chofu Airport

Chofu has another treat for aviation enthusiasts: Chofu Airport, which operates regular flights to islands such as Oshima in Tokyo's Izu archipelago. A highlight of visiting the airport is dining at "Propeller Cafe," a glass-walled restaurant where you can watch planes take off and land while enjoying your meal.

There are also aircraft on display near the restaurant, creating an irresistible atmosphere for aviation fans. The best part is that you don’t need to be a traveler to access the cafe, so feel free to drop by anytime.

6. Ajinomoto Stadium

Ajinomoto Stadium, affectionately known as "Ajisuta," serves as the home ground for football teams FC Tokyo and Tokyo Verdy. This outdoor stadium boasts a capacity of approximately 50,000 people and is used for more than just soccer. It also hosts international sports matches and concerts by popular artists.

The open-air ambiance of the stadium adds to the excitement and energy of the events. Ajinomoto Stadium was also one of the venues for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics, making it a noteworthy spot for sports fans. Besides sports, the stadium hosts some of the largest flea markets in Japan several times a year, welcoming both locals and tourists alike to participate.

7. Nogawa Park

Nogawa Park extends along the Nogawa River, spanning Chofu City, Koganei City, and Mitaka City. It features a variety of facilities, including playgrounds for children and gateball courts for seniors, but its most attractive feature is the expansive lawn. Visitors can enjoy picnics, badminton, or even a game of tag with plenty of space to spare.

The park also includes a free barbecue area, making it a perfect spot for leisure activities close to the city center. In spring, the cherry blossoms create a picturesque setting, while in autumn, the ginkgo-lined paths are perfect for walks or strolls with pets. Walking along the river can also reveal numerous delightful discoveries.

8. Birthplace of Isami Kondo

Isami Kondo, the famed leader of the Shinsengumi and a historical figure beloved by enthusiasts, has a deep connection to Chofu. Many may remember him from the NHK Taiga drama Shinsengumi!. Kondo was born and spent his youth in Chofu, and the site of his family home preserves elements like the old well used for his first bath and the Kondo Shrine built during the Showa era. This is a significant place to feel the history of this samurai from the late Edo period.

9. Saneatsu Mushanokoji Memorial Museum and Park

The early 20th-century author Saneatsu Mushanokoji spent the last 20 years of his life in Chofu. The Saneatsu Memorial Museum, located next to Saneatsu Park, preserves the former residence of the author, surrounded by a pond and dense trees, evoking the feeling of stepping into a forest.

The museum is known for its extensive exhibits and seasonal special exhibitions, attracting many fans. The museum shop is a highlight, offering postcards featuring Mushanokoji’s paintings, making for perfect mementos of your visit.

10. Tenjin Street Shopping District

Chofu, also known as "the town with GeGeGe no Kitaro," is full of surprises for fans of the beloved series. The Tenjin Street Shopping District, located near Chofu Station, is known as "Kitaro Road." Visitors are greeted by statues of Kitaro and Medama-Oyaji at the entrance of the street.

As you walk further, you’ll encounter other familiar characters like Neko-Musume and Ittan-Momen. Kitaro himself can be spotted four times throughout the shopping district, making it an enjoyable challenge to find him while exploring.

11. Fuda Tenjin Shrine

Fuda Tenjin Shrine is located at the end of Tenjin Street Shopping District. This shrine has a long history, and while the exact date of its establishment is unclear, it is known for enshrining Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning. One notable feature of the shrine is the statue of the sacred cow lying on the grounds, which is said to bring good fortune to those who pat it; as a result, it shines brightly from frequent visits by worshippers.

Visitors can also try their hand at the "GeGeGe no Kitaro Omikuji," a fortune-telling paper that reveals not only one’s luck for the day but also the yokai that may be lurking within one's heart. It’s a fun way to share stories about yokai with friends and family.

12. Chofu PARCO

Chofu PARCO is a shopping destination located just outside the north exit of Chofu Station, popular among both locals and tourists. The department store features a wide range of popular brands and restaurants, making it a great spot for shoppers of all ages.

Buses to notable tourist attractions, such as Jindaiji Temple, depart from the rotary in front of PARCO, making it a convenient starting point for exploring Chofu. Keep an eye out for the Kitaro-themed wrapped buses unique to the area.

13. Chofu City Local Museum

Chofu City Local Museum is a must-visit for elementary school students in Chofu, offering a comprehensive look at the city’s history, nature, and culture. The displays of pottery and stone tools transport visitors back to the Jomon period, creating a sense of excitement and wonder.

The museum also hosts irregular lectures and workshops, allowing visitors to experience unique local crafts, such as making red horses (Akuma) associated with Jindaiji Temple, which make great souvenirs. The museum is particularly popular among families, as it offers activities like moon-viewing dumpling-making that children and adults can enjoy together.

14. Keio Floral Garden Ange

Keio Floral Garden Ange was a hidden garden located in front of Keio Tamagawa Station, featuring a stunning array of magnolias in white, pink, and yellow, along with seasonal flowers in bloom. Designed in a European garden style, it created an enchanting atmosphere reminiscent of a fairy tale. On certain days, visitors could enjoy live performances of music from around the world while spending a leisurely time among the flowers.

Barbecues surrounded by greenery were also popular at this venue, as all the necessary equipment and ingredients were provided, allowing guests to enjoy a hassle-free experience. It offered a luxurious getaway that felt worlds away from the usual hustle and bustle of Chofu.

*Keio Floral Garden Ange closed in 2021.

15. Tokyo Oval Keio (Keio Velodrome)

Have you ever watched keirin (Japanese bicycle racing)? Whether you're familiar with it or not, it is highly recommend catching a race at the Keio Velodrome. The bicycle races are held on a steep track with a maximum incline of about 32 degrees, offering an exhilarating experience. Recently, women’s keirin racing has made a comeback after 48 years, gaining increased attention.

The facility is family-friendly, featuring a kids' room for those visiting with children. For beginners unfamiliar with the sport, there’s a guidance corner available. You can enjoy the excitement of the races without needing to place bets, making it a fun outing for everyone.

16. Tokyo Olympic Marathon Turnaround Monument

This monument has become a hidden tourist spot in Chofu, coinciding with the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. It marks the turnaround point for the marathon event during the 1964 Tokyo Olympics, situated at the 42.195 km mark.

Recently, it has gained a reputation as a sacred site for marathon runners, with many coming to practice here. Located directly in front of Ajinomoto Stadium, it’s an excellent spot to stop by when attending a sporting event.

17. Saikoji Temple

Saikoji Temple is located just a five-minute walk from Nishichofu Station. It was moved to its current location to protect the Kōshū Highway’s post town when the Edo shogunate was established. One of its notable features is the thirty-three statues of the Bodhisattvas, which are considered some of the finest sculptures from the Edo period and are displayed during the summer.

Saikoji Temple also has a significant connection to Kondo Isami, as a statue of him sits to the left of the Nio Gate. Additionally, Daikokuten is enshrined here, making it part of Chofu City’s pilgrimage circuit of temples dedicated to the Seven Lucky Gods. Visitors are encouraged to embark on this journey to pay respects to all the gods.

18. Kokuryo Shrine

Kokuryo Shrine is a historic shrine located just a five-minute walk from Fuda Station, adjacent to Chofu Station. One of its most notable features is the sacred wisteria tree, known as “Sen-nen no Fuji,” which is said to be 400 to 500 years old.

This ancient tree has grown for centuries, symbolizing prosperity and good fortune. The term “fuji” also relates to "fujin" (prosperity and safety), believed to ward off misfortune. If you plan to visit, consider going in April or May when the wisteria flowers are in full bloom.

19. Yamauchi Vineyard

Located in the scenic Sengawa area of Chofu City, Yamauchi Vineyard is well-known for its beautiful surroundings. While they currently grow various vegetables, grapes remain the main attraction.

Family visitors particularly enjoy the “Grape Picking Garden,” which opens from mid to late August, offering a fun summer memory. Beyond grape picking, they host experience events such as pizza-making with seasonal ingredients, making it an ideal spot for family activities.

20. Movie Actor Monument and Birthplace of Film Monument

Did you know that Chofu is known as "the town of movies"? The city is home to several film-related enterprises, including Kadokawa Daiei Studio and Nikkatsu Chofu Studio. While tours of these film studios are not available, you can get a closer feel for cinema at this site featuring two monuments.

This area, which is now a children's park, was once part of the Daiei Studio grounds. The monument is engraved with the names of renowned Showa-era stars like Yujiro Ishihara, so be sure to look for them during your visit.

21. Chofu Summer Fireworks Festival

A summer highlight in Chofu is the annual fireworks festival, which draws nearly 400,000 spectators to the banks of the Tamagawa River. With around 8,000 fireworks launched, the close-up experience is truly satisfying.

One of the most exciting features is the “Hanabi Ryuujin,” where music and fireworks perfectly synchronize for an unforgettable show. For those who want to enjoy the best views, paid seating is recommended.

◎Summary

While Chofu is often associated with the imagery of Jindaiji Temple and GeGeGe no Kitaro, it offers much more. With attractions that span temples, history, cinema, aviation, sports, and flowers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. By planning your visit around specific themes, you can create an itinerary tailored to your interests. Most of the locations mentioned are within walking distance from Keio Line stations, making it easy to stop by for sightseeing. Chofu, with its convenient access from the city center, is perfect for a casual day trip.

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21 Sightseeing Spots in Chofu You May Not Know About