Hino City is synonymous with the Shinsengumi! 19 recommended sightseeing spots that will tickle your fancy

Hino City, known for its lush greenery and clear streams that make it hard to believe it's part of Tokyo, is a town in the southern Tama region, just 30 minutes from the city center. Formerly known as "Hino-juku," it prospered as the fifth post town on the Koshu Kaido road, and remnants of its past can still be seen throughout the city. When talking about Hino City, one cannot ignore the Shinsengumi! It is the birthplace of Vice-Commander Hijikata Toshizo and the Sixth Unit Captain Inoue Genzaburo, making it a holy site for their fans. It’s not uncommon to spot people wearing the signature Shinsengumi haori (short jackets) around town.

This time, we introduce 19 recommended tourist spots in Hino City, which has been revitalizing itself as the "Hometown of the Shinsengumi." Even if you’re not particularly interested in them, this list might just make you want to visit Hino City!

1. Shinsengumi Hometown History Museum

The first spot we introduce is an irresistible attraction for Shinsengumi fans and history enthusiasts! Located in Shimmei, Hino City, the Shinsengumi Hometown History Museum features a permanent exhibition covering the Shinsengumi’s rise and fall, along with various special exhibitions related to the group.

The museum also has a well-equipped photo corner where visitors can dress up in Shinsengumi attire and experience the feeling of being a member. In addition to various costumes, authentic props such as Kijinmaru Kunishige, a sword believed to have been used by Saito Hajime, and a replica of Sakamoto Ryoma’s gun are available, allowing for highly realistic commemorative photos!

Due in part to the popularity of anime based on the Shinsengumi, the Shinsengumi Hometown History Museum attracts many female visitors. It is undoubtedly a must-visit attraction in Hino City.

2. Hijikata Toshizo Museum

Next, we introduce another spot that no Shinsengumi fan can afford to miss! This museum is located at the birthplace of Hijikata Toshizo and is run by his descendants. Situated in Ishida, Hino City, this museum displays more than 70 artifacts and relics related to Hijikata Toshizo, the legendary "Demon Vice-Commander."
One of the most notable exhibits is Izuminokami Kanesada, Hijikata's beloved sword. This blade is designated as a Tangible Cultural Property by Hino City and is displayed to the public only for a limited period around the anniversary of his death each year. It is a must-see artifact that accompanied Hijikata throughout his fate!

For visitors, the most convenient access is via the Tama Monorail Manganji Station, which is just a five-minute walk from the museum.

3. Ishida Temple

Located in Ishida, Hino City, Sekidenji Temple is another historical spot associated with Hijikata Toshizo, the Vice-Commander of the Shinsengumi. The temple was once abandoned but was revived when a Jūichimen Kannon (Eleven-Faced Kannon) statue was carried here by the floodwaters of the Tama River in 1544.

Within the temple grounds, visitors can find a 400-year-old kaya tree, designated as a Natural Monument by Hino City, a sacred Kannon statue, and the Hijikata Toshizo Gihou-no-hi monument. However, the main attraction for many visitors is Hijikata Toshizo's grave. His gravestone, inscribed with his Buddhist name Saishin'in-den Seizan Gihou Daikoji, is continuously adorned with flowers year-round, a testament to the enduring admiration for him.

If you're visiting Hino City, be sure to stop by Sekidenji Temple and pay your respects.

4. Tokyo Tama Zoological Park

One of the top attractions in Hino City is the Tokyo Tama Zoological Park! Located in Hodokubo, Hino City, this expansive zoo covers an area of 52.3 hectares and is home to approximately 320 species and 22,000 individual animals and insects.

A unique feature of the zoo is that, instead of cages, natural barriers such as moats separate the exhibits. This setup allows visitors to observe animals in a setting that closely resembles their natural habitat. Popular animals such as red pandas, koalas, and Eurasian wolves can be seen exhibiting their natural behaviors.

The Tokyo Tama Zoological Park is on par with Ueno Zoo in terms of scale and attractions. To get there, take the Keio Line or Tama Monorail to Tama Zoological Park Station, which is just a one-minute walk from the entrance. Although there is no dedicated parking lot, visitors can use nearby paid parking facilities. However, public transportation is recommended for easier access.

5. Hino City Folk Museum

As its name suggests, the Hino City Local Museum is a great place to learn about the history of Hino City. Located in Hodokubo, Hino City, the museum features exhibits focusing on Hino’s history, nature, and folklore, as well as various workshops and educational programs. Since Hino City has strong ties to the Shinsengumi, visitors may also find themselves gaining a deeper understanding of the group’s history.

Admission to the museum is free, making it an excellent spot for a quick stop during your trip. For easy access, take the Tama Monorail to Hodokubo Station, which is about a seven-minute walk from the museum. Alternatively, visitors can take a bus from Keio Line Takahatafudo Station.

6. Keio Rail Land

If you're visiting Tama Zoological Park, be sure to stop by Keio Rail Land as well. Operated by Keio Corporation, this museum is an educational attraction where visitors can learn all about trains. Designed as a fun space for families with children, Keio Rail Land is the perfect place for parents and kids to enjoy together.

The museum offers various activities, including Plarail train sets, play areas, quizzes, train driving simulators, and conductor experiences, ensuring a fun-filled day without boredom. Outdoors, visitors can explore classic Keio Line and Inokashira Line train cars, or take a ride on a miniature train to view the exhibits up close. Whether you're a train enthusiast or visiting with children, Keio Rail Land in Hodokubo, Hino City, is a great spot to explore.

7. Keio Mogusaen Garden

Would you like to enjoy seasonal landscapes in a traditional Japanese garden in Hino City? Covering approximately 26,000 square meters, Keio Mogusaen Garden is home to about 50 varieties and 500 plum trees, making it a well-known plum blossom viewing spot. Every year, from mid-February to mid-March, the garden hosts a plum festival, attracting many visitors.

In the rainy season, visitors can enjoy hydrangeas, while maple leaves color the garden in autumn. Additionally, rare flowers such as robai (wintersweet) and kanzaki iris bloom throughout the year, offering breathtaking views. On some nights, the garden is illuminated, making for an even more enchanting experience.

With its ever-changing seasonal scenery, Keio Mogusaen Garden is also a favorite spot for photography enthusiasts.
If you plan to visit, bringing a camera is highly recommended.

8. Takahata Fudoson Kongoji Temple

Takahata Fudoson Kongoji Temple, one of the Three Great Fudo Temples of Kanto, is also the family temple of Hijikata Toshizo from the Shinsengumi. Upon passing through the temple gate, visitors will find a statue of Hijikata, while his memorial tablet can be seen inside the Dainichido Hall. The temple grounds span over 13,200 square meters and feature structures such as the Fudo Hall, the Oku-den Hall, and a magnificent Five-Story Pagoda. A particularly striking sight is the Joroku Fudo Sanzon, Japan's only 1,100kg statue of its kind.

One of the temple’s most famous events is the Hydrangea Festival, held when 7,500 hydrangea bushes of 200 different varieties bloom across the grounds. Planning a trip to Hino around this festival could be a wonderful experience.

9. Monument to the Two Martyrs

Adjacent to the Hijikata Toshizo Statue at Takahata Fudoson Kongoji Temple stands the Monument of the Two Loyal Heroes. This commemorative stone monument was built at Hijikata Toshizo’s family temple to honor the Shinsengumi, who were once branded as rebels.

The "Two Martyred Heroes" refer to Shinsengumi Commander Kondo Isami and Vice-Commander Hijikata Toshizo. In 1874 (Meiji 7), the government issued an official announcement allowing memorials for those who had died in battle despite being labeled rebels. This prompted Kojima Tamemasa, a supporter of the Shinsengumi, to initiate the construction of the monument. Standing 3 meters tall, the single stone monument bears an inscription written in old-style kanji, which can be difficult to decipher. Those interested in its meaning may want to check websites that provide a modern translation.

Even if you can’t read the inscription, those familiar with the Shinsengumi’s history may find the Monument of the Two Loyal Heroes deeply moving. If you're visiting Takahata Fudoson Kongoji Temple, be sure to stop by this historical landmark.

10. Yasaka Shrine

Located in Hino Honmachi, Yasaka Shrine is another historical site linked to the Shinsengumi. Also known as Tenno-sama, this shrine houses a dedicatory plaque donated by swordsmen who trained in Tennen Rishin-ryu, a traditional Japanese martial arts school.

Tennen Rishin-ryu, founded around 1789, was a comprehensive martial art practiced even among farmers. Two of its notable students were Kondo Isami and Okita Soji, both of whom later became leaders of the Shinsengumi. A plaque dedicated in 1858 bears the names Shimazaki Isami and Okita Sojiro, the names under which they were known before joining the Shinsengumi. Fans of the group may enjoy searching for these names among the inscriptions.

Additionally, the Annual Grand Festival, held on the third Saturday and Sunday of September, is one of Hino City's biggest events. The festival’s highlight is a keyaki (zelkova) wood mikoshi (portable shrine), adorned with intricate carvings, parading through the streets accompanied by the prelude drum procession.

11. Mitswasan Kakujuin Daishoji Temple

Did you know that there is a temple in Hino where Hijikata Toshizo’s real sister is buried? That temple is Mitsuwashiyama Tsurujuiin Daisho Temple, located in Hino Honmachi, Hino City. Founded in 1602, this temple is also the final resting place of Sato Toshimasa (Hikogoro), known as the guardian of the Shinsengumi, as well as Tamagawa Kiyuuo, a famous satirical poet with ties to Hino.

Among the graves, you will find a black granite tombstone in the Sato family burial area, marking the resting place of Sato Hikogoro and his wife Nobe, who was Hijikata Toshizo’s sister. These two were among the greatest supporters of the Shinsengumi, making their graves an essential pilgrimage site for history enthusiasts visiting Hino City.

The temple grounds also feature a 7-meter-tall bell tower and a row of six Jizo statues symbolizing the salvation of all suffering beings in the cycle of rebirth, creating a tranquil space for exploration.

12. Hosenji Temple

The next destination related to the Shinsengumi is Nyoi-san Hosenji Temple, located just a 2-minute walk from JR Hino Station. This temple is known as the family temple of Inoue Genzaburo, who served as the Captain of the Shinsengumi’s Sixth Unit. His grave and a commemorative monument can be found here, and many fans and visitors come to pay their respects.

Founded around 1330, Hosenji is a Zen temple that enshrines Shakyamuni Buddha as its principal deity. A particularly famous attraction here is the 36cm-tall stone statue of Bato Kannon, known as the "Lifting Kannon". Legend has it that your perception of its weight when lifted determines your fortune. If you visit Hino, why not test your luck by lifting the statue?

Additionally, the Inoue Genzaburo memorial monument is located near the parking lot, so be sure not to miss it.

13. Hinojuku Exchange Center

If you are sightseeing in Hino City, be sure to visit the Hino-juku Exchange Hall. Opened in 2007 in the repurposed building of the Hachioji Shinkin Bank’s Hino branch, this facility provides not only tourist information but also a gift shop selling local specialties and a rest area where visitors can enjoy food and drinks. Of course, you can also purchase original Shinsengumi-themed merchandise!

The second floor serves as an exhibition space, and temporary exhibits are sometimes held inside the former bank vault. Entering a real bank vault is a rare experience, making this a unique attraction. Conveniently located just a 7-minute walk from JR Hino Station, it’s an excellent place to stop by before starting your sightseeing tour.

14. Hinojuku Honjin

A branch of the Shinsengumi Hometown History Museum, Hino-juku Honjin is a historic inn built during the Edo period. It is the only remaining honjin (official post station inn) in Tokyo, making it an invaluable cultural site. This building once served as both an inn for feudal lords and as the residence of Sato Hikogoro, the village head of Hino Hongo.

Visitors can explore the entire interior, including the exhibition room, which offers insights into the deep connection between Hino City and the Shinsengumi. Since Hino City has the largest collection of Shinsengumi-related documents in Japan, this is a perfect place to expand your knowledge of their history.

15. Citizens' Forest Sports Park

For families visiting Hino City, the Citizens’ Forest Sports Park is a fantastic destination. Located in Hino Honmachi, this expansive park spans approximately 390,000 square meters and is centered around an athletic stadium. In addition to standard playground equipment, the park features wooden structures and a large rope climbing structure known as “Zyle Climb,” providing children with plenty of fun activities.

A natural spring flows nearby, making water play possible during the summer months. Families can also use benches and tables to enjoy a packed lunch after playing. Additionally, the park frequently hosts sports events on weekends, making it a lively spot that visitors can actively participate in.

16. Sato Hikogoro Shinsengumi Museum

If you want to learn about the history of the Shinsengumi, this is a must-visit attraction! The Sato Hikogoro Shinsengumi Museum, run by the descendants of Sato Hikogoro, one of the Shinsengumi’s greatest supporters, showcases numerous historical artifacts related to the group.

One of the most notable exhibits is the iron fan used by Hijikata Toshizo himself. This rare item is a unique piece that even history enthusiasts will find fascinating. Other highlights include a single-shot firearm once owned by Kondo Isami, which he later gave to Sato Hikogoro. The museum holds many more valuable artifacts, and its collection is updated periodically with different exhibits.

The Sato Hikogoro Shinsengumi Museum is conveniently located behind the Hino-juku Honjin, another major historical site in Hino Honmachi. It is recommended to visit both locations together.

17. Inoue Genzaburo Museum

Another important site in Hino Honmachi is the Inoue Genzaburo Museum, housed in the birthplace of Inoue Genzaburo, Captain of the Sixth Unit of the Shinsengumi. Operated by his descendants, the museum was opened in 2004 after the family’s traditional earthen storehouse was renovated into an exhibition space. Inside, visitors can find many historical documents, such as the Bunkyu 3rd Year Kyoto Travel Journal, written by Inoue’s brother, Matsugoro, along with letters from Hijikata Toshizo and Inoue Genzaburo. Another highlight is the famed sword Yamato no Kami Minamoto no Hidekuni, which Kondo Isami gifted to Matsugoro.

Inoue Genzaburo, a senior disciple of Kondo Isami, was a master of Tennen Rishin-ryu, a traditional martial art. His Tennen Rishin-ryu Swordsmanship License, granted by Kondo Shusuke, the third-generation head of the school, is also displayed in the museum. The museum is only open on the first and third Sundays of each month from 12:00 PM to 4:00 PM, so be sure to check the schedule before visiting.

18. "Mariya no Kaze" Horse Trekking

After immersing yourself in the history of the Shinsengumi, why not take in the natural beauty of Hino City? At Mariya no Kaze, a horse café in Hino Honmachi, visitors can experience horse trekking.

What makes this experience special is that you can tour historical Shinsengumi-related sites on horseback! Alternatively, you can choose scenic routes such as crossing the Asakawa River, a tributary of the Tama River, or riding through nature trails. The staff will help create a customized sightseeing plan to match your interests.

Mariya, the Quarter Horse, is known for her gentle and friendly personality, making this an enjoyable experience even for children and beginners. If you’re planning a trip to Hino, Mariya no Kaze is definitely a spot to check out!

19. Kurokawa Seiryu Park

Located in Higashi-Toyoda, Hino City, Kurokawa Clear Stream Park is a lush, nature-filled park that makes you forget you are in Tokyo. With its stunning seasonal scenery and flowing streams, this park is one of Hino’s most popular destinations. Summer is the best time to visit! Thanks to its natural springs and thick forests, the park remains pleasantly cool, and visitors can enjoy playing in the spring water area.

For a more relaxing experience, take a stroll along the walking trails lined with oak and sawtooth oak trees. If you are interested in birdwatching, winter is the best season to visit. The park is located just a 10-minute walk from JR Toyoda Station, and it can even be seen from the train windows.

◎ Summary

As expected from a city that actively promotes its Shinsengumi heritage, Hino is filled with numerous historical sites related to the legendary samurai group. However, beyond the Shinsengumi, the city offers many other attractions that highlight Hino’s unique charm! If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the fast-paced sightseeing in central Tokyo, why not take a break and visit the nature-rich city of Hino? Just 30 minutes by train from downtown, you’ll find yourself in a city full of history, culture, and relaxation!