Decidedly residential, Nakano City is not only home to numerous local temples and shrines but also to the legacy of one of Japan's most influential thinkers, new era public spaces combining business and relaxation, and Nakano Broadway, the city's answer to the comic fans of Akihabara.
Temples & Shrines
Baishoin Temple
A local temple dedicated to the Buddha of Healing, Baishoin Temple features a marvelous origin story, numerous annual ceremonies including monthly Goma Fire Rituals, some stunning religious statues and as well as interesting temple architecture.
Five minutes from Araiyakushi-mae Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line.
Shinmei Hikawa Shrine
A small shrine hidden within a tight cluster of trees, Shinmei Hikawa Shrine is a perfectly contemplative spiritual space. Highlighted by the surrounding greenery, this simple Shinto shrine features some interesting komainu guardian statues, with one protecting its young cub.
Ten minutes from Nakano Fujimicho Station on the Marunouchi Line.
Gardens & Parks
Tetsugakudo Park
A park dedicated to philosophical thought, Tetsugakudo Park was established by Japanese philosopher, Inoue Enryo in 1906. It features many Meiji-period buildings dedicated to Eastern and Western sages, contemplative philosopher statues, ponds, bridges and beautiful seasonal foliage.
Ten minutes from the North Exit of Araiyakushi-mae Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line.
Nakano Central Park
A community friendly green space, Nakano Central Park is one of Tokyo's new breed of purpose built public spaces. Serviced by local businesses and restaurants, the park continually plays host to community events, markets and festivals. Its fountain and sprinklers make it particularly popular during summer.
Five minutes from the North Exit of Nakano Station on the JR Chuo Line.
Museums & Galleries
Torek Museum of Art
Run by the Tokyo Shinmei religious organisation, the Torek Museum of Art is open to the public. Featuring the collected works of the organisation, the gallery hosts several exhibitions throughout the year, focusing on Japanese and Asian art including paintings, sculptures, clay work and lacquer ware.
Seven minutes from Higashi Nakano Station on the Toei Oedo and JR Chuo-Sobu Lines.
Yamazaki Memorial Nakano Historical Museum
Currently undergoing renovations until March 2020, Yamazaki Memorial Nakano Historical Museum has been widely acclaimed as one of Tokyo's best municipal folk museums. Featuring two floors of displays and several exhibitions throughout the year, this museum traces the history of the region from ancient times.
Ten minutes from Numabukuro Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line.
Landmarks & History
Nakano Broadway
Think Nakano and chances are you will think of Nakano Broadway. This shopping complex draws in fans of the manga and anime world from everywhere. Cosy enough to be personal yet large enough to amaze, Nakano Broadway is one the city's most well known spots.
Three minutes from the North Exit of Nakano Station on the JR Chuo Line.
The Grave of Inoue Enryo
Inoue Enryo was a philosopher, Buddhist reformer, and teacher in the Meiji Period. Founder of Toyo University, Japan's first Society of Philosophy, and publisher of journals, books and lecture tour speaker, Inoue's grave is in Nakano City.
Fourteen minutes from the North Exit of Araiyakushi-mae Station on the Seibu Shinjuku Line.
