WESTERN TOKYO

Horse racing is a national pastime in Japan, and the Keio lines provide access to wonderful attractions related to the equestrian sport. A short walk from Fuchu Keiba Seimonmae Station, the Tokyo Racecourse in the city of Fuchu is a premier racecourse with turf, dirt and steeplechase courses that hosts the Japan Cup, Japanese Derby and NHK Mile Cup, among other major races.

Visitors should also stop by the nearby JRA Racing Museum, featuring exhibits that highlight the rich history of Japanese horse racing, including horses and horsemen who have been inducted into the Hall of Fame.

To reach Fuchu Keiba Seimonmae Station from Shinjuku, people can take the Keio Line to Higashifuchu Station and transfer to the Keio Keibajo Line. Visitors can also reach the racecourse from Higashifuchu Station via the Racecourse East Gate, which is a 10-minute walk from the racecourse.

URL: http://japanracing.jp/en/
http://www.bajibunka.jrao.ne.jp/en/jraracingmuseum.html

Located about an hour from Shinjuku Station, Mount Takao is the perfect setting to escape the metropolis and appreciate the region’s natural beauty.

Mount Takao is situated between Japan’s subtropical and temperate forests, with abundant trees and plants of both woodland types on its mountain slopes. The mountain features casual hiking courses, as well as courses that lead trekkers through quiet, serene areas. From mid-November to early December, visitors can admire the red and yellow foliage that envelops the area along their way to the 599-meter peak. Visitors can also ride to the peak via cable car or chair lift.

To round out their mountain excursion, travelers can soak in the natural hot springs flowing from the mountain’s foothills at the Keio Takaosan Onsen Gokurakuyu.

To reach Mount Takao from Shinjuku Station, people can take the Keio Line to Kitano Station and transfer to the Keio Takao Line.

URL: http://www.takaosan-onsen.jp/english/

From “My Neighbor Totoro” to “Spirited Away” and “Kiki’s Delivery Service,” Studio Ghibli’s animated films have long captured the hearts and imaginations of fans around the world.

Nestled among the tall trees of Inokashira Park, the Ghibli Museum transports visitors to the studio’s fantastical worlds with beautiful artwork and exhibits. Guests can ride a giant plush rendition of the Cat Bus from “My Neighbor Totoro,” enjoy an exclusive, original short animated film and unwind next to a five-meter-tall robot soldier from “Castle in the Sky” at the grassy rooftop garden.

Other attractions include a reading room shelved with books recommended by director and studio co-founder Hayao Miyazaki, a charming patio with colorful flowers and a shop with products featuring beloved film characters.

The museum is located near Kichijoji Station on the Keio Inokashira and JR Chuo lines. The museum is immensely popular among Japanese and tourists alike, and visitors must reserve in advance at JTB agencies or Lawson convenience stores.

URL: http://www.ghibli-museum.jp/en/