Top 3 Attractions in Funabori, Tokyo Travel
※updated on July 22 2025
Located about 30 minutes by train from Tokyo Metro’s Tokyo Station—with just one transfer—or around 17 minutes from the Akihabara area, Funabori is a neighborhood that once thrived as the “Goldfish Town.” Today, it draws visitors with its local landmark: an observation tower that offers panoramic views and has become a popular sightseeing spot.
The name “Funabori” is said to originate from a canal once used by boats in the area. Now, it’s known as a peaceful, family-friendly residential district, appreciated for its calm atmosphere and easy access to central Tokyo.
Several nearby parks offer safe and fun play areas for small children, making it an ideal destination for families looking to relax during their Tokyo trip.
In this article, we’ll introduce three must-visit attractions near Funabori Station.
1) Funabori Tower Hall: A Free Observation Spot
Funabori Tower Hall is a public facility located just steps from Funabori Station on the Toei Shinjuku Line. Since opening in 1999 under the concept of a “passenger boat for local residents,” it has served as a beloved landmark for the community. The building includes a cinema, wedding venue, and dining options, creating a space for locals and visitors to gather.
The highlight of the facility is its 115-meter-tall observation tower. Admission is free, making it an accessible experience for everyone. From the 103-meter-high observation deck, you can enjoy a stunning 360-degree panoramic view of Tokyo. On clear days, you might even spot Tokyo Skytree, Mount Fuji, Tokyo Bay, and even Tokyo Disneyland to the south.
For tourists, it’s a hidden gem where you can take in breathtaking views of the city without the crowds. With event halls, a movie theater, and restaurants inside, it’s a relaxing place to spend time—especially for families. Funabori Tower Hall is the perfect off-the-beaten-path spot to visit during your Tokyo travels.
📍 Address: 4-1-1 Funabori, Edogawa-ku
🕒 Opening hours: 9:00~21:30
🎟️ Price: Free
🚉 Access: 1 minute from Funabori Station
2) Goldfish Mosaic Art: A Tribute to Funabori’s Aquatic Heritage
This area once flourished as a major production hub for goldfish in Japan. Goldfish are believed to have been introduced from China in the 1500s. Initially kept as luxury pets by the wealthy, they gradually gained popularity among the general public, and goldfish farming became a thriving industry in this region.
Today, that legacy lives on in the form of a goldfish-themed mosaic artwork at Funabori Station. It’s a rare and charming spot to appreciate goldfish art—something you won’t often find elsewhere in Japan.
The appreciation of goldfish remains alive in Japanese culture. A great example is the “Art Aquarium” exhibition held at Ginza Mitsukoshi, where visitors of all ages can enjoy an immersive and artistic goldfish viewing experience in a fantastical setting.
In addition to the mosaic, there are two notable bronze statues near the station. On the north side, you'll find Yakudō ("Vitality"), which depicts two dynamic human figures seemingly merging with life and movement. While interpretations vary, it inspired a sense of energy and passion—perhaps a metaphor for living life with vibrancy.
On the south side, the Statue of Egrets pays homage to the area's past as a peaceful countryside where white egrets once gathered. The pair of male and female birds symbolizes trust and affection. The statue expresses a hope for nurturing new life and building a future rich in humanity and compassion.
3) Edogawa City Shizen Zoo: A Free Family-Friendly Oasis
About a 20-minute walk south of Funabori Station, you'll find a peaceful and relaxing spot that’s completely free to enjoy. Located inside Gyosen Park in Tokyo’s Edogawa Ward, the Edogawa City Natural Zoo is a small but charming zoo with no admission fee.
Visitors can get an up-close look at adorable animals like red pandas, capybaras, and squirrel monkeys. The zoo is especially popular among families with children, thanks to its petting area where guests can interact with guinea pigs and goats.
Though compact in size, the zoo offers a fun and fulfilling experience, even if you only have a short time. Since it’s set within a lush, green park, it’s also perfect for a relaxing stroll or a picnic. For those looking to escape the hustle and bustle of Tokyo, this hidden gem offers a refreshing break in a tranquil, nature-filled setting.
Funabori is still relatively unknown as a tourist destination, making it a true hidden gem in Tokyo. From breathtaking panoramic views of the city to a relaxing, family-friendly zoo, this area offers a surprising variety of attractions. Now is the perfect time to experience the charm of Funabori—before the crowds discover it.
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