A Day Trip from Tokyo to Explore the Beautiful Showa Memorial Park

2025/04/02

Located in Tachikawa, just 30 minutes from central Tokyo, Showa Memorial Park is a 160-hectare oasis offering a peaceful escape from the city. The park features wide lawns, Japanese and Western-style gardens, tranquil ponds, and interesting museums, making it perfect for nature walks, photography, and family outings.

Whether you're traveling with friends, family, or solo, the park’s spacious fields and serene landscapes provide the ideal setting for a relaxing day. Visitors can enjoy picnics, leisurely strolls, and exploring various themed areas throughout the park.

Things to Do All Year Round

Showa Memorial Park is beautiful in every season. Here’s what you can enjoy throughout the year.

Spring – Cherry Blossoms & Colorful Flowers

Tulips blooming from late March to mid-April

Spring at Showa Memorial Park is a visual delight. The park comes alive with cherry blossoms, tulips, rapeseed, and azaleas. Stroll along the rows of blooming cherry trees, enjoy the vibrant colors of tulip fields up close, or relax on the grass surrounded by spring flowers while having a picnic. Spring is the perfect season to experience the park’s cheerful and lively atmosphere.

Summer – Green Lawns & Lake Activities

Sunflowers that bloom from early to mid-August

Summer brings lush greenery to the park. Visitors can enjoy boating on the lake, have picnics on the expansive lawns, or take a break in the shade of large trees. Families especially love spending time together on the water or playing games on the soft green grass. With long sunny days and vibrant nature, summer offers plenty of outdoor fun for everyone.

Autumn – Stunning Fall Foliage

Pond in the Japanese garden at Showa Memorial Park

Autumn transforms Showa Memorial Park into a colorful paradise. The trees turn brilliant shades of red, orange, and yellow, creating perfect opportunities for photography. Take a leisurely walk through the fiery foliage, capture the reflections of autumn leaves on the water, or simply soak in the peaceful seasonal beauty. Fall is ideal for nature lovers and photographers alike.

Winter – Quiet Walks & Serene Gardens

Plum blossoms bloom from mid-January to mid-March

Winter offers a quieter, more serene side of the park. You can enjoy peaceful walks, serene gardens, and unique photo opportunities. Frost or a light dusting of snow adds a magical touch to the landscape, while bare trees and calm ponds create a tranquil winter scene. It’s the perfect season to enjoy a reflective stroll away from the city’s hustle and bust

Other attractions inside the park include:

Bonsai museum– admire traditional miniature trees
Children’s playground and bouncing domes – fun for all ages
Row and pedal boats on the boating lake
Traditional folk village – step back into historical Japan
Cafés and seasonal menus – enjoy food and drinks inspired by nature

To get around efficiently, visitors can use:

◼️Bicycle rental:

Adults
3 hours: ¥600
Overtime: ¥100 per 30 minutes
Children (Junior High School and below)
3 hours: ¥350
Overtime: ¥50 per 30 minutes
Tandem / Special Bicycles (per bike)
3 hours: ¥1,500
Overtime: ¥200 per 30 minutes

◼️Park train:

Adults (including seniors 65+):¥400
Children (Junior High School and below):¥200

How to Get There from Tokyo

The nearest station is Tachikawa Station, and the park is about an 18-minute walk from the entrance.

Recommended options:

Charter Bus & Limousine Japan – ideal for groups, flexible sightseeing, and private day trips
Public transit – Take the JR Chuo Line to Tachikawa, then walk or rent a bicycle for convenient access

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Tips for Your Day Trip

Arrive early to enjoy the park before it gets busy
Bring a picnic to relax on the wide lawns
Rent a bicycle to cover more of the park’s extensive grounds
Explore gardens, ponds, and themed areas for photography and cultural experiences

Practical Information

Address: 3173 Midoricho, Tachikawa-shi, Tokyo, 190-0014, Japan
Hours: 9:30–17:00 (March–October), 9:30–16:30 (November–February)
Closed: December 31, January 1, and the 4th Monday of January + following day

Make the Most of Your Tokyo Day Trip

Combine your visit to Showa Memorial Park with nearby attractions:

1Takahatafudo Temple

Travel time: 25 minutes by car from Tachikawa
Features: Historic Buddhist temple with a five-story pagoda
Why visit: Experience Japanese culture, explore temple grounds, and enjoy photogenic scenery

2Tama Zoo

Travel time: 20–25 minutes by car from Tachikawa
Features: Vast park for animal observation, including koalas and red pandas
Why visit: Perfect for nature lovers and families, offering a relaxing, nature-filled experience

Recommended transportation: Charter Bus & Limousine Japan provides convenience and flexibility for private tours or group travel!

Enjoying Nature Just Outside Tokyo

Showa Memorial Park is an ideal day trip from Tokyo for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and families. With its scenic landscapes, wide lawns, diverse gardens, and engaging attractions, it offers a memorable experience any time of the year. Pair your visit with nearby Takahatafudo Temple and Tama Zoo for a full-day adventure outside the city.

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