Oji Area

Enchanting Oji Area

Plenty of nature-abundant places for strolls such as Asukayama Park, which has been a favorite spot for viewing cherry blossoms since ancient times, as well as parks with waterfalls. You can also discover the wide appeal of Japan by experiencing technology that can only be found here in the birthplace of Western-style paper in Japan and seeing culture such as traditional craft arts and performances for the masses. Streetcars, which are rare in Tokyo, are also a pleasant sight to see as they run along the tracks in rustic townscapes.

1 Asukayama Park

Asukayama Park was recognized in 1873 as the first public park in Japan. It presents beautiful flowers and scenery of the four distinctive seasons, and is crowded in spring with visitors who come to view the cherry blossoms that bloom on the roughly six hundred cherry trees. The kids' area, with attractions such as the Toden streetcar and locomotive on display, is also popular with children.

2 Oji Fox Pageant

People wearing makeup and masks while costumed as foxes appear in Oji on the night of New Year’s Eve each year. It is a New Year’s event based on a legend of foxes drawn on a woodblock print. The parade marches from Shozoku Inari-jinja Shrine down to the streets of Oji, and finally to Oji Inari-jinja Shrine. It is a mystical event that can only be seen once a year.

3 Paper Museum

Oji is the birthplace of Western-style paper in Japan. Asukayama Park has one of the world’s finest comprehensive paper museums in the world and introduces the history and production processes of paper. Visitors can make postcards at the Japanese paper-making class (reception from 12:50 p.m. to 2:15 p.m.) on Saturdays and Sundays every week.

4 Kyu-Shibusawa Garden

The remains of the residence of Eiichi Shibusawa, who is known as the “god of banking”. The grass lawn that spreads across Asukayama Park is beautiful, and the Bankoro cottage and the Seien Bunko library, which are designated Nationally Important Cultural Assets, are must-see sights.

5 Toei Arakawa

Line

The sounds of streetcars in Tokyo that go“ cling cling” create a nostalgic and old downtown atmosphere despite being in Tokyo. There are six stops in Kita City and along the railroad are many famous tourist spots such as Oji Station and Mount Asuka.

6 Jujo Ginza Shopping Area

The largest shopping area in Kita City, which starts from JR Ju jo Station. It is well-reputed for its large selection of items an d low prices, and is crowded with local residents. There are also many simple prepared foods on sale such as croquettes, so shoppers can enjoy trying out various foods while taking a glimpse of actual Japanese life from up close.

7 Hokutopia
17F Observatory Lobby

The observation lobby on the top floor (17th floor) offers a beautiful view that includes sights such as Asukayama Park and the Tokyo Skytree.

8 Otonashi

Shinsui Park

A waterfront park with a beautiful line of cherry trees. It also includes features such as a picturesque bridge and lighting that give off a very Japanese atmosphere.

9 Nanushi-no-Taki

Park

A Japanese garden with four waterfalls including the“ male waterfall”, which is one of the tallest waterfalls in Tokyo, as well as a nature-abundant environment with zelkovas, Japanese maple trees, and more.

10 Oji

Ogiya

An old established Japanese omelet shop that has continued making them by hand ever since their opening in 1648. Their specialty is their thick-layered Japanese omelet.

11 Banknote & Postage Stamp Museum

A museum that is located adjacently to the National Printing Bureau’s Oji Factory. The area where you can see for yourself anti-counterfeit technology at work with your own bills is popular.

12 Ukiyoe

& Mokuhanga

The workshop of Shinkichi Numabe, a nationally-certified craftsman of traditional arts. Famous woodblock prints are depicted with colors and expressions that can only be presented with woodblocks.

13 Tokyo Tegaki

Yuzen

Fabrics such as those for long-sleeved kimonos are dyed with natural themes and traditional aesthetics of Japan, which are drawn by hand. This is the workshop of expert craftsman Nobuo Sato.

14 Shinohara Engeijo Theater

The oldest theater in Tokyo specializing in performances for the masses. It is extremely popular among local residents who come to enjoy mini shows, theater, and dance performances.


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