15 Best Tours & Experiences In Musashino

Musashino offers a surprising variety of memorable tours and experiences that highlight its vibrant neighborhood of Kichijoji and beyond. Unlike typical city sightseeing, Musashino’s charm lies in its blend of culinary delights, cultural traditions, and local hangouts, making it an ideal spot for those who want an authentic taste of Tokyo’s suburban life. We particularly love the Small Town in the Big City: Tasting Tokyo’s Kichijoji (see tour) for its hearty exploration of old-school yakitori and trendy department store food halls, and the Exclusive Tokyo Secret: Kichijoji Small-Group Food & Bar Hopping (see tour) for its intimate look into local bar culture away from crowds. These tours showcase how Kichijoji balances modern urban vibrancy with traditional Tokyo charm.

Below, we’ve put together a list of 15 top-rated experiences in Musashino — from private food tastings and street food adventures to cultural walks, manga workshops, seasonal festivals, and even a Mikoshi parade. Whatever your interest, you’ll find something that deepens your understanding of this lively district.

1. Small Town in the Big City: Tasting Tokyo’s Kichijoji

For around $195, this 6-hour food tour offers an immersive journey through Kichijoji’s culinary scene. It starts at Inokashira Onshi Park, where you experience a department store depachika, sampling everything from fresh pickles to local sushi. The highlight is walking along shotengai shopping streets, rubbing elbows with locals at yakitori joints and street food stalls. It’s a great way to appreciate both tradition and trend in one of Tokyo’s most beloved neighborhoods. Tour guide Phoebe’s enthusiasm and knowledge earn rave reviews, making this a top pick for food lovers who want depth and local flavor.

Bottom Line: Ideal for those who want an all-encompassing food experience with a blend of history, local life, and delicious bites in Kichijoji.

2. The 10 Tastings of Tokyo With Locals: Private Street Food Tour

This 3-hour private tour is a personalized adventure through Kichijoji’s street food scene, with ten different dishes hand-picked by your local guide Abu. You’ll visit spots like the Kichijoji Art Museum, Musashino Hachimangu, and the bustling Parco shopping street, sampling everything from fried fishcakes to Taiyaki. Guests love the intimate setting and the chance to discover food they wouldn’t find on their own, with reviews praising Abu’s knowledge and personalized approach. It’s perfect for adventurous eaters keen on local specialties and authentic Tokyo flavors.

Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a quick, personalized, and tasty introduction to Tokyo’s street food—ideal if you’re short on time but want a genuine experience.

3. Explore Kichijoji: Walk Through One of Tokyo’s Beloved Districts

This 2-hour walking tour dives into Kichijoji’s charm through Sunroad Shopping Street, Gesso-ji Temple, and Nakamichi-dori. It’s a perfect light introduction for visitors who want a blend of shopping, history, and local atmosphere. Central to the experience is Harmonica Yokocho, a lively alley filled with tiny bars and eateries, where you’ll get a taste of local nightlife. The guide shares interesting stories about the area’s development and its connection to the Ghibli Museum. With a price under $50, it offers good value for an overview of Kichijoji’s rich character.

Bottom Line: Best suited for first-timers who want a relaxed walk with cultural insights and a peek into local life.

4. EXCLUSIVE Tokyo Secret: Kichijoji Small-Group Food & Bar Hopping

At around $105 for three hours, this small-group bar-hopping experience takes you behind the scenes in Kichijoji’s Harmonica Yokocho and hidden izakayas. Led by Hibi, you’ll explore 4-5 off-the-beaten-path bars, sampling local snacks and drinks in intimate settings. The reviews highlight the authentic atmosphere and the chance to interact with friendly locals, making it perfect for travelers who want to dive into Tokyo’s nightlife scene away from tourist spots. The tour often includes street food and tasting some of Japan’s best craft beers.

Bottom Line: Perfect for night owls and those who love discovering local bar culture, with a relaxed, friendly vibe.

5. Small Town in the Big City: Tasting Tokyo’s Kichijoji (Repeat)

This is a similar, slightly shorter version of the first tour, also priced at $195 for 6 hours. It explores the same culinary traditions, from yakitori to department store food halls. The focus on sampling a wide variety of local eats makes it ideal for travelers wanting a comprehensive food experience in Kichijoji. With positive reviews emphasizing the quality of food and engaging guides, this tour offers good value for a full day of tasting Tokyo’s best.

Bottom Line: Best for those who want an extensive, relaxed day exploring Tokyo’s culinary heartbeat in Kichijoji.

6. Tokyo Kichijoji Twilight: Explore Instagram-Worthy Hidden Spots

For $39, this 2-hour twilight walk captures the most picturesque spots of Kichijoji at sunset. It includes Inokashira Park, with opportunities to photograph the pond and cherry blossoms, plus charming streets filled with cafes and murals. This tour caters to travelers eager to take stunning photos and experience the area’s aesthetic side as day turns to night. The guide shows you secret alleyways and neon-lit corners that give Kichijoji its photogenic edge.

Bottom Line: Ideal for Instagram enthusiasts and anyone wanting a relaxed stroll with plenty of photo ops.

7. 3-Hour Manga Drawing Workshop in Tokyo

At just $97, this 3-hour workshop invites you to learn manga illustration from a professional artist. Whether you’re a beginner or experienced, you’ll create your own manga page, ask questions about the industry, and get hands-on tips with specialized tools. Participants rave about the friendly, inclusive atmosphere and the chance to take home their artwork. It’s a fun, creative experience perfect for fans of Japanese comics and arts.

Bottom Line: A creative break from sightseeing, especially good for families or artistic travelers wanting a memorable souvenir.

8. Plant-Based Sushi Diversity for All (vegan-friendly)

This 4-hour class at $65 introduces you to the world of vegan sushi, exploring traditional and modern plant-based techniques. Led by a knowledgeable artist, you’ll learn about sushi history while making your own. Guests enjoy the interactive experience and leave with new skills and understanding of how diverse Japanese cuisine can be. Reviewers praise the engaging instructor and the chance to taste delicious vegan options.

Bottom Line: Perfect for vegans, vegetarians, or anyone curious about plant-based Japanese cuisine.

9. Private Guided Kichijoji Food Tour in Tokyo

For $121, this personalized private tour offers a flexible 1-2 hour experience with a popular YouTube personality. It includes visits to Tokyu Department Store, Japanese restaurants, and exclusive tastings, with the guide entertaining and informing along the way. This tour suits travelers who prefer a tailored approach and enjoy social interaction, with reviews highlighting the guide’s hospitality and local insights.

Bottom Line: An excellent choice for those seeking a flexible, engaging, private introduction to Kichijoji’s food scene.

10. Jindaiji Traditional Temple Purification Tour with Local Soba

This 3-hour tour at $65 takes you from Musashi-Sakai Station to Jindaiji Temple, emphasizing spiritual practices like a oharai purification ritual. After observing monks perform sacred ceremonies, you’ll enjoy a traditional soba meal, with stories shared about the temple’s history. Guests rave about the power of the purification ritual and the serene atmosphere. It’s perfect for those interested in spiritual and cultural traditions.

Bottom Line: A meaningful experience for culturally curious travelers who want a peaceful, spiritual connection.

11. Seafood Sushi Diversity for All

This 4-hour experience costs $65 and explores the diversity of seafood sushi beyond the basics. Led by a multisector artist and chef, you’ll learn about the different regional styles and partake in making sushi. The focus is on broadening your appreciation for Japanese food diversity, with reviews noting the engaging lessons and the variety of tastes offered.

Bottom Line: Excellent for foodies eager to deepen their sushi knowledge and enjoy a hands-on cooking session.

12. Experience Mikoshi Parade in Kichijoji, Tokyo!

On September 12-13, join the 2-hour Mikoshi Parade experience for just $39. Watch or even participate in carrying the portable shrines during Kichijoji’s Autumn Festival. The parade features colorful Mikoshi from the Musashino Hachimangu Shrine and local districts, each with its own style. You’ll feel the festive energy and learn about this important tradition from the shrine’s history. Visitors love the lively atmosphere and the chance to be part of a real festival.

Bottom Line: Best for festival enthusiasts and curious travelers who want to witness authentic Japanese celebrations.

13. 2 Hour Guided Tour of Local Summer Festival in Kichijoji, Tokyo

This 2-hour guided tour for $35 takes you through the summer festival scene, visiting Tokyu Department Store and Gesso-ji Temple during the Ennichi fairs. Participants enjoy traditional Bon-odori dancing and festive atmosphere, with the guide sharing stories about local customs. It’s a lively, participatory experience ideal for families or those wanting to celebrate Japanese summer traditions.

Bottom Line: A lively, cultural experience suited for families and festival-goers wanting an authentic summer celebration.

14. Samurai Guide Sho’s Kichijoji Night Training–Drink & Dish Pairing

This 3-hour experience at $97 pairs Japanese food and drinks with a fun storyline. Starting in Harmonica Yokocho, you’ll enjoy yakitori and sake while dressed in a “samurai” outfit. Moving to craft beer bars, you’ll taste Japanese craft beers and learn about fermentation. Guests love the immersive, themed atmosphere and the chance to experience Tokyo nightlife with a twist. It’s ideal for those who enjoy storytelling alongside food and drink.

Bottom Line: Great for curious travelers wanting a playful, interactive night out with unique local pairings.

15. Tokyo Kichijoji 4hr Private Tour: Fun for Kids and Parents

For families, this private 4-hour tour at $214 covers Inokashira Park and Plaza Capcom, tailored to children’s interests. It includes boat rides, art, and playful stops, making it flexible and engaging. Reviews highlight its suitability for kids and the personalized attention from a guide who loves working with children. It’s perfect for families wanting a relaxed yet fun exploration at their own pace.

Bottom Line: Highly recommended for families who want a customized, kid-friendly way to experience Kichijoji.

How to Choose Your Perfect Tour

When selecting from these excellent options, consider your budget, time constraints, and specific interests. For a full day of food exploration with a local guide, the Small Town in the Big City (see tour) offers a deep dive into Tokyo’s culinary culture. If you prefer something active and visual, the Twilight Instagram Tour (see tour) provides great photo opportunities with minimal time investment. Families or those wanting a flexible approach should look into the Private Tour for Kids (see tour), which can be tailored to your needs.

For culture, the Jindaiji Temple Tour (see tour) offers a peaceful spiritual experience, while the Bar and Night Food Tour (see tour) appeals to those wanting nightlife and authentic local drinking spots. Booking early is recommended, especially for popular dates like the Mikoshi Parade or seasonal festivals.

Final Thoughts

Musashino’s range of tours allows you to connect with Tokyo in ways that go beyond the usual sightseeing. Whether you’re a dedicated foodie, a cultural explorer, or traveling with family, you’ll find memorable experiences that fit your interests. We especially recommend the Small Town in the Big City for a comprehensive food adventure, and the Exclusive Bar Hopping for those craving an authentic night out. Whatever your choice, early booking helps ensure you secure your spot in these popular experiences. Enjoy your time exploring Musashino’s vibrant neighborhoods—there’s truly something for all.