Top 5 recommendations in Kita
※updated on June 1 2025
Kita City, located in northern Tokyo, is an area rich in nature, parks, and facilities deeply connected to culture and history 🏯. In Oji, you’ll find Oji Shrine, one of the Ten Tokyo Shrines, and Asukayama Park, a famous cherry blossom spot. In Akabane and Jūjō, visitors can enjoy nostalgic shopping streets and standing bars (tachinomi)—especially in Akabane—where you can truly experience local Tokyo life 🍶🛍️. The area is also well-connected by public transport, making it easy to reach from central Tokyo 🚆.
1) Asukayama Park 🌸
During spring, Asukayama Park becomes lively with people enjoying hanami (cherry blossom viewing) under the blooming sakura trees. Just a 1-minute walk from JR Oji Station, you’ll find a small monorail called the Ascargot, which you can ride for free! In just about 2 minutes, it takes you to the top of the hill where the park is located.
It’s said that these cherry trees were planted under the order of Tokugawa Yoshimune, the 8th shogun of the Edo period. Knowing this adds a deeper, historical flavor to your viewing of the blossoms 🌸.
📍 Address: 1-1-3 Ōji, Kita-ku
🕒 Opening hours: Open 24 hours; Ascargot operates 10:00–16:00
🎟️ Price: Free
🚉 Access: 1-minute walk from JR Oji Station
2) Oji Shrine ⛩️🌳
Just a 5-minute walk from JR Oji Station, Oji Shrine is a historic and prestigious shrine, attracting visitors seeking good fortune and protection from misfortune. On its grounds, you’ll find a 600-year-old ginkgo tree, guardian komainu statues that protect child-rearing, and a huge torii gate that leaves a powerful impression on all who enter.
📍 Address: 1-1-12 Ojihoncho, Kita-ku
🕒 Opening hours: Open 24 hours
🎟️ Price: Free
🚉 Access: 3-minute walk from JR Oji Station
3) Ukima Park
Just a one-minute walk from the north exit of JR Ukimafunado Station lies Ukima Park, known for its symbolic waterwheel. Tokyo’s landscape was significantly shaped by large-scale river improvement projects, especially those involving the Arakawa River. As a result of these developments, the park’s pond falls under the jurisdiction of Itabashi city, while the eastern area belongs to Kita city—a somewhat complex administrative arrangement.
However, for visitors, such details are of little concern. In spring, the park is adorned with cherry blossoms in full bloom. Visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll around the expansive pond or relax with a cup of coffee from the café located within the park. It’s a peaceful spot that soothes the soul.
Despite being in the heart of the city, Ukima Park offers a sense of openness and tranquility. Why not take a moment to escape the bustle of urban life and spend some calm, unhurried time here?
📍 Address: 2-14 Funado, Itabashi-ku
🕒 Opening hours: 24 hours
🎟️ Price: Free
🚉 Access: 1 minute from JR Ukimafunado Station
4) Hoku Topia
Kita Topia is a multi-purpose cultural complex located in Tokyo’s Kita City, featuring music studios, event halls, and more. Built as a symbol of the ward, this facility offers not only cultural amenities but also one of the best free observation decks in Tokyo.
Located on the 17th floor, the observation lounge provides sweeping panoramic views of Tokyo’s Kita Ward. Just below the windows, JR train tracks run directly under the building, creating a thrilling “train view” that fascinates both adults and children who love trains 🚄✨.
On clear days, you can even see distant mountain ranges to the north, offering a rare blend of urban scenery and natural beauty — a true hidden gem for travelers who want to escape the crowds. Whether you're looking for a quiet break during your Tokyo sightseeing or a unique photo spot, Kita Topia is definitely worth a visit.
5) Seasonal Flower Art “KITACITY” 🌸📸
Just a 10-minute walk from Akabane-Iwabuchi Station (Tokyo Metro), a stunning piece of seasonal flower art appears along the Arakawa riverbank each spring.
This massive floral display is created using vibrant moss phlox (shibazakura) in bright magenta and white, forming the word “KITACITY” in bold letters — making it one of the most Instagram-worthy spring photo spots in northern Tokyo 🌼✨. Behind the flower beds, cherry blossoms bloom in full glory, creating a gorgeous contrast of colors and textures that perfectly symbolize spring in Kita City. The combination of river views, seasonal flowers, and cherry blossoms makes this a must-see location.
Though it’s a limited-time spot, if you're visiting Tokyo in spring, don’t miss this unique flower art installation — ideal for photos, picnics, or just soaking in the beauty of the season.
In Kita City, there are still many more hidden spots waiting to be discovered beyond these well-known attractions 🔍✨. Taking a walk through the area and searching for your own personal favorite place can be one of the most enjoyable ways to experience this unique part of the city 🚶♀️🗺️.
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