Categories: Near Shinjuku

Inokashira Benzaiten & Park: A Tranquil Oasis in Musashino

Just a short train ride west of central Tokyo lies one of the city’s most beloved green spaces—Inokashira Park (井の頭恩賜公園). Located in Mitaka, this spacious park offers a refreshing contrast to the urban bustle, with its central pond, shaded walking paths, and seasonal scenery that has drawn Tokyoites for over a century. At the heart of the park sits Inokashira Benzaiten, a Shintō shrine dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten, which adds a spiritual dimension to the area’s natural beauty. Together, the park and its shrine form a cultural and recreational retreat that has charmed generations of visitors.

A Gift to the People: The History of Inokashira Park

Inokashira Park opened in 1917 as Tokyo’s first suburban park, a gift from the Emperor Taishō to the public. Since then, it has become a favorite escape for residents of the western suburbs and central Tokyo alike. The park is built around Inokashira Pond, a natural spring that once supplied drinking water to the city of Edo. Today, the pond remains its centerpiece, with rental rowboats and swan-shaped pedal boats inviting couples, families, and friends to enjoy leisurely afternoons on the water.

The surrounding grounds feature forested trails, cherry blossom groves, open lawns, and even a small zoo, making it a versatile space for relaxation and play. On weekends, the park buzzes with street performers, musicians, and craft vendors, adding a lively community atmosphere to its serene natural backdrop.

Inokashira Benzaiten: Goddess of Music and Fortune

Tucked away on a small island in the pond is Inokashira Benzaiten (弁財天), a shrine dedicated to the goddess Benzaiten, who is associated with water, music, and good fortune. Legend has it that she can also influence romantic relationships—some even caution that couples who boat too close to the shrine may find their love tested by jealousy! Regardless of superstition, the shrine remains a place of quiet reverence, with vermilion structures reflecting gracefully in the water.

The site exemplifies the harmonious blend of Shintō spirituality and natural beauty, offering visitors not only a scenic stroll but also a moment of reflection. Seasonal festivals at the shrine draw crowds with music performances and ritual celebrations, further linking Benzaiten’s divine presence to the park’s lively culture.

Seasonal Charms Throughout the Year

Inokashira Park is a year-round destination, with each season painting the landscape in new colors.

Spring: The park is one of Tokyo’s most popular cherry blossom spots. Boats floating under a canopy of pink petals create some of the most romantic images of springtime Japan.
Summer: Shaded paths and cool breezes from the pond make it a perfect picnic spot. Families enjoy pedal boats, while children chase dragonflies along the grass.
Autumn: Maple trees ignite in fiery reds and golds, casting brilliant reflections in the pond’s still water—a favorite for photographers.
Winter: The park quiets down, revealing a tranquil atmosphere, with bare branches silhouetted against crisp skies and the shrine’s architecture standing in serene contrast.

No matter the season, the park offers a balance of lively activity and peaceful retreat, making it a favorite among both locals and visitors.

More Than a Park: A Cultural Hub

Beyond its natural beauty, Inokashira Park is a cultural hub. Adjacent to the park is the Ghibli Museum, dedicated to the works of Studio Ghibli, which brings an additional wave of visitors to Mitaka. Within the park, weekend flea markets, art stalls, and impromptu performances create a dynamic blend of art and community life. The park is also closely tied to student culture, being a popular gathering spot for those attending nearby universities.

A Breath of Fresh Air in Tokyo

For anyone seeking a quieter, more reflective side of Tokyo, Inokashira Park and its Benzaiten shrine offer an oasis where history, spirituality, and community converge. Whether you are rowing across the pond in spring, admiring autumn leaves, or pausing before the shrine’s serene reflection, you’ll discover why generations of Tokyo residents have cherished this place. It’s not just a park—it’s a living story of Tokyo’s relationship with nature, faith, and seasonal joy.