Overview
A convenient bedroom community, Nishitokyo City offers up a curious mix of museums and art galleries. Ranging from basic exhibition spaces serving the local community to more substantive research and science-based locations, the city does manage to provide a bit more punch than its weight. Here is a simple introduction to the museums and galleries of Nishitokyo City and how to reach them.
Gallery Tsukasa
As far as community spaces go, even Gallery Tsukasa is a simple one. A good example of the locally-driven world behind the city's art scene, the gallery space offers the chance for neighbourhood artists and organisers to do their thing and run local events. Like any community space, timing of visit is all important.
A 3-minute walk from Higashi-Fushimi Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line.
Nishitokyo City Local History Museum
More of a display room of local history, the Nishitokyo City Local History Museum isn't likely to be a first choice destination for most. Still, there is something to be said for this free museum's conscientious display of items with neat dioramas and artefacts tracing local history between the Paleolithic and Meiji periods.
A 9-minute no.7 or no.44 bus ride from Tanashi Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line.
Tamarokuto Science Museum
One of the most advanced planetariums in the world, the Tamarokuto Science Center is not only easily identified by its egg-shaped dome theatre, but also very family friendly. Its five rooms are filled with interactive displays and exhibits for both parent and children and while the museum's award-winning dome theatre offers regular shows.
An 8-minutee Route North 4 bus bound for Tanashi Station from the North Exit of Hana-Koganei Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line.
The University of Tokyo Farm Museum
Surrounded by plenty of farming and green space, the University of Tokyo Farm Museum is set within a dairy barn that was built in the 1930s. Part of the university's research programs, the museum displays farming technologies from Europe, including a small rail car that once carried supplies within the property.
A 13-minute walk from Tanashi Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line.
