Inokashira Pond — Attraction in Tokyo

At the heart of this park lies Inokashira Pond, a wide, tree-fringed lake that manages to be both tranquil & kitschy at the same time. On one hand, you’ve got the reflective waters, ducks & shaded paths that make for a peaceful stroll. On the other, you’ve got dozens of giant swan-shaped pedal boats gliding around like escapees from a carnival ride.

The pond dates back to the Edo period, when it supplied drinking water to the people of Tokyo (then Edo). Today it supplies entertainment: couples, families & tourists hopping into rowboats or swan boats, legs pumping furiously while they drift around in slow-motion circles.

Here’s the kicker: there’s a local legend that says couples who ride the swan boats together are doomed to break up. Blame it on the jealous goddess Benzaiten, who has a shrine nearby. So if you’re trying to test your relationship, this is one way to accelerate the results.

The water itself isn’t exactly pristine (algae blooms are common in summer) but the surrounding greenery makes up for it. On a sunny day, the pond reflects the sky beautifully & the whole area feels like a breather from Tokyo’s...

Inokashira Pond, located within walking distance from Kichijoji or Mitaka Station, is like an oasis in the city. On my recent visit, I enjoyed a peaceful stroll around the tranquil pond, watching ducks and turtles, which was incredibly calming. The highlight of my visit was riding a boat—seeing the surrounding trees from the center of the pond was absolutely stunning. During spring and autumn, the vibrant colors of nature make it a paradise for photography lovers. There are also cozy cafes nearby where you can relax and take your time enjoying the park. Inokashira Pond is the perfect place to immerse yourself in nature...

I enjoyed the time spent in the white swan pedal boat (700 yen/30 Min) with my mom. I read that legend has it that you’ll break up with your significant other if you go with them (I read that somewhere online), so I’m glad I took my mom and not my husband!!! There were a lot of couples, though, so don’t let the urban legend stop you! It’s a really cute park and different from the pedal boats in Ueno Park (this park is suburbs and white swans only vs. Ueno Park is super city/tall buildings with pink, blue and white swans). I enjoyed the pedal boats at both location. We did this before the...