Mitaka(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Tama City, the top choice for families is Machiya Hotel Tama, located just steps from the Ghibli Museum Tama and nestled within a tranquil garden district. This boutique hotel offers spacious family rooms, kid-friendly amenities like toy corners and high chairs, and a daily breakfast buffet with local ingredients. The surrounding area features Inokashira Park and Tama Park, perfect for outdoor play and picnics.

Another excellent option is Daiwa Roynet Hotel Tama, near Tama Station, offering modern, clean rooms with free Wi-Fi, an on-site café, and easy access to public transit. Both hotels provide a peaceful, safe environment ideal for parents and children alike, blending urban convenience with suburban serenity—perfect for a stress-free family getaway in Tokyo’s green heart.

For anime enthusiasts, the Ghibli Museum Tama is an absolute must-visit. Designed by Hayao Miyazaki himself, this whimsical museum showcases original animation cels, storyboards, and immersive installations inspired by classics like Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro. Interactive exhibits allow visitors to step into animated worlds.

Adjacent to it is Inokashira Park, where the iconic Totoro statue stands beneath a giant camphor tree—a pilgrimage site for fans. The park’s serene lake and walking trails offer a real-life backdrop of the Studio Ghibli universe. Don’t miss the Ghibli-themed gift shop inside the museum, selling rare merchandise and limited-edition collectibles. These experiences make Tama City a sacred ground for lovers of Japanese animation and storytelling.

To immerse in authentic Japanese tea culture, visit Cha no Yu, a hidden tea house nestled within Inokashira Park. This rustic wooden pavilion serves matcha and wagashi (traditional sweets) in a serene, forested setting. The tea master conducts daily ceremonies, emphasizing mindfulness and harmony.

Alternatively, join a Tea Ceremony Workshop hosted at the Tama City Cultural Center, which includes instruction on tea preparation, ikebana (flower arranging), and Zen meditation. Workshops are available in English and attract both locals and international visitors. The tranquil atmosphere, combined with the ritual precision of tea-making, offers a profound cultural experience that reflects Tama City’s quiet elegance and deep-rooted traditions.

The Tama no Mori district is Tama City’s most peaceful and restorative neighborhood. Surrounded by ancient trees and overlooking the Ghibli Museum, this residential enclave offers a true escape from urban life.

Stay at Tama no Mori Ryokan, a private guesthouse featuring tatami-matted rooms, an open-air hot spring bath, and a Zen garden. Each room opens to a private veranda, perfect for morning meditation or evening stargazing. With minimal traffic and lush greenery, it’s ideal for those seeking stillness, inspiration, or a digital detox. Evenings are silent except for rustling leaves and distant bird calls—making it one of Tokyo’s most tranquil retreats.

Photography lovers should explore the hidden forest path behind the Ghibli Museum Tama—a moss-covered trail winding through century-old trees, dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy. The interplay of light and shadow creates a cinematic atmosphere perfect for long-exposure shots.

Another gem is the Old Inokashira Bridge, especially during golden hour. Its arched silhouette reflects beautifully in the calm lake water, framed by red-brick pavilions. Bring a wide-angle lens for dramatic compositions.

Don’t overlook the glass dome courtyard of Tama City Public Library, which transforms into a surreal light sculpture during rainy days. Water droplets cascade down the glass, creating abstract patterns. These off-the-beaten-path locations capture Tama City’s poetic soul beyond its famous landmarks.

Yes, Tama no Mori Romantic Suite is a dreamy hideaway for couples. Located deep in the forest, each suite features a private rooftop terrace with a view of the stars, a soaking tub with mountain views, and a personalized welcome kit including local wine and handmade chocolates.

The property also offers couples’ spa treatments and candlelit dinners arranged upon request. Just a 5-minute walk leads to the Lovers' Bridge in Inokashira Park, where couples stroll beneath cherry blossoms or under moonlight. With its intimate ambiance and natural beauty, this retreat captures the essence of quiet romance—perfect for rekindling love away from Tokyo’s hustle.

Tama City boasts excellent public transport links to central Tokyo. Tama Station on the JR Chūō Line provides direct access: 20 minutes to Shinjuku and 30 minutes to Shibuya. From there, seamless transfers connect to major lines like the Yamanote and Ginza Lines.

The Inokashira Line runs from Tama Station to Kagurazaka and Shibuya, passing through scenic areas and the trendy Kichijoji district. Buses connect key destinations like the Ghibli Museum and Inokashira Park with frequent service.

With reliable schedules, clean trains, and multiple transfer options, Tama City balances tranquility with accessibility—ideal for day-trippers, commuters, or travelers who want to enjoy nature without sacrificing convenience.

Tama City may be small, but it offers unique culinary gems. Try the Inokashira Curry Rice at Kogane Dining, a rich, savory dish made with locally grown vegetables and a secret spice blend—popular among both locals and tourists.

Another highlight is Tama-style Tamago Soba: fresh buckwheat noodles topped with a perfectly grilled egg omelet, served with a delicate soy-based sauce. Made at Tama-an, a family-run shop with over 60 years of tradition.

Visit the Tama Farmers Market on weekends to sample seasonal fruits, homemade pickles, and artisanal jam. Many vendors use organic, zero-waste practices. These flavors reflect Tama City’s harmony between nature and community—simple, heartfelt, and deeply satisfying.

Tickets to the Ghibli Museum Tama must be booked well in advance—ideally 4 to 6 weeks ahead. The museum operates on a strict reservation system with limited daily capacity.

Online bookings open on the first of every month at noon JST via the official website (https://www.ghibli-museum.jp/). Due to high demand, popular dates sell out within minutes. It’s recommended to create an account early, use a stable internet connection, and have payment details ready.

If you miss the initial release, check the “Waitlist” option—some cancellations free up spots. However, success rates are low. Always bring your ID and e-ticket for entry. Planning ahead ensures you won’t miss this iconic destination dedicated to Studio Ghibli’s legacy.

Absolutely—Tama City is a top destination for families. The Ghibli Museum Tama features interactive zones where children can design characters, build mini animations, and explore magical props from films like Ponyo and Kiki’s Delivery Service.

Nearby, Inokashira Park has a large playground, paddle boats, and a petting zoo. Seasonal events include cherry blossom viewing in spring and autumn leaf walks.

The Tama City Children’s Library hosts weekly storytime sessions, craft workshops, and parent-child yoga. Many hotels, like Machiya Hotel Tama, offer baby cots, kid-sized toiletries, and toy rentals. With green spaces, child-friendly facilities, and gentle pace, Tama City nurtures joy and curiosity—making it a safe, fun-filled haven for families.