What Is the Tama Area? A Quick Guide to Tokyo's Western Gem
Many people have heard of the Tama Area but aren't quite sure where it is. Here's a quick introduction to this surprisingly vast and charming part of Tokyo — and why this site was created.
GOOD BUYS! GOOD LOCAL!
View all →Mt. Takao Craft Beer "Tengu no Bakushu"
A craft beer brewed with spring water from the foot of Mt. Takao. The perfect reward after a hike.
Tama Wildflower Honey
Pure domestic honey harvested from the abundant wildflowers of the Tama Hills. Rich with notes of cherry blossom and chestnut.
Jindaiji Soba (Dried Noodles)
Enjoy the famous Jindaiji soba — a tradition since the Edo period — at home. A beloved souvenir for any occasion.
Showa Memorial Park Sunflower Jam
Original jam made from sunflowers grown inside the park. Limited quantities available.
Hachioji Washi Letter Set
A stationery set made with traditional washi paper featuring Nishijin-weave-inspired patterns, a craft heritage of Hachioji.
Musashi Local Sake "Fuchu Homare"
A pure rice sake brewed by a local Fuchu brewery, using sacred water from Okunitama Shrine.
Jindaiji Kitaro Cookie Tin
Character cookies inspired by GeGeGe no Kitaro, whose hometown is Chofu. A fun souvenir for kids and fans.
Kunitachi Coffee Roastery Drip Pack
Drip coffee packs from a beloved specialty roaster along the iconic zelkova-lined Daigaku-dori. A great gift.
LATEST ARTICLES
Rooftop Beer Garden Opens at Tama Center's Oka-no-ue Plaza
Summer in Tama Center just got more refreshing! The rooftop of Oka-no-ue Plaza has transformed into a lively open-air beer garden dubbed 'Beer no Niwa' (Beer Garden). From its very first day, the venue drew a large crowd of locals and visitors eager to enjoy cold drinks under the open sky. With a relaxed atmosphere and sweeping views from the rooftop, it's the perfect spot to unwind after a day of shopping or sightseeing around Tama New Town. A must-visit summer hangout for anyone exploring the Tama Area.
Read article →Kid Reporters Explore Tama's Satoyama Forest to Learn About Wildlife
Children in the Tama Area got a hands-on lesson in nature, exploring the region's traditional satoyama woodlands as junior reporters. Comparing real creatures they encountered with pictures in their field guides, the young explorers discovered how different living wildlife is from the printed page. The Tama hills are one of Tokyo's most accessible pockets of nature, home to insects, birds, and plants that thrive in these managed forests. It's a great reminder that even in metropolitan Tokyo, immersive nature experiences are just a short train ride away.
Read article →Popular Sweets Shop 'Okashi no Machioka' to Open at Cocoria Tama Center
Sweet news for Tama Center shoppers! The beloved discount confectionery chain 'Okashi no Machioka' will open a new store on the B1 floor of Cocoria Tama Center on September 18. Known for its huge selection of Japanese snacks, chocolates, and candies at bargain prices, the shop is a favorite destination for locals and visitors alike hunting for edible souvenirs. If you're exploring the Tama Center area, this new location is set to become a must-stop for Japanese sweets fans.
Read article →'Night BEER Picnic' at Seiseki Kawamachi with Fireworks and Night Runs
From August 24 for one full week, the riverside venue Seiseki Kawamachi in Tama City will host the 'Night BEER Picnic,' a summer event combining cold beers, delicious food, and a relaxed picnic vibe along the Tama River. Weekend visitors can enjoy special extras including fireworks displays and organized night runs, making it a lively evening destination for both families and adventure-seekers. Set against the backdrop of the river at dusk, it's one of the most atmospheric places to soak up the last days of Tokyo's summer.
Read article →Odakyu Romancecar Makes Special One-Day Run on Tama Line
In a rare and delightful event for railway fans, Odakyu Electric Railway ran a special Romancecar limited express service on the Tama Line after the last train of the day, with a one-day-only revival of the express stopping at Mukogaoka-Yuen Station. This nostalgic operation drew enthusiastic attention from train enthusiasts and locals alike, offering a unique glimpse into Odakyu's history and the special charm of the Tama area's rail network. A memorable moment for anyone who loves Japan's iconic railway culture.
Read article →Tama Zoological Park Releases Animal Video Gallery Vol. 272
Tama Zoological Park in Hino has released the latest installment of its popular animal video gallery, Vol. 272. The series offers charming, close-up glimpses of the zoo's diverse residents, from playful primates to majestic hoofed animals roaming the park's expansive natural enclosures. A great way to preview your visit or simply enjoy Tama's wildlife from afar, the video gallery highlights why this sprawling zoo remains one of the Tama Area's top family-friendly attractions. Plan a visit to see these fascinating animals in person in their spacious, naturalistic habitats.
Read article →Tokyo Verdy Beleza Players Signing Event in Tama City
On August 30, Nippon TV Tokyo Verdy Beleza, one of Japan's top women's football clubs, will hold a special autograph session exclusively for Tama City residents. As part of their hometown activities, this rare opportunity lets fans meet their favorite players up close, get autographs, and celebrate the team's connection to the Tama community. Whether you're a football lover or simply curious about local sports culture in western Tokyo, this event is a fantastic way to experience Tama's vibrant sports scene.
Read article →Sanrio Puroland Celebrates 35th Anniversary in Tama Center
Sanrio Puroland, the beloved indoor theme park in Tama Center, is marking its 35th anniversary with a festive lineup of events. Hello Kitty-themed picture book readings, dazzling illuminations, and special activities throughout Tama Center will delight fans of all ages. This milestone celebration transforms the area into a wonderland of cuteness and character charm, making it a perfect destination for families, Sanrio enthusiasts, and international visitors seeking a uniquely Japanese pop-culture experience in western Tokyo.
Read article →Keio and Tama-Area Railways Join National Lost & Found Search Service
Traveling in Tama just got easier for international visitors. Keio Electric Railway and three other Tama-area transit operators have joined a nationwide lost-and-found cross-search service, now covering 39 operators across Japan. If you misplace an item while exploring Tachikawa, Chofu, Hachioji, or other Tama destinations, you can quickly check across multiple railway networks in one place. It's a small but meaningful upgrade that makes discovering the Tama area more convenient and stress-free for tourists and locals alike.
Read article →High School Astronomy Club Runs Their Own Planetarium Show
Students from the Japan Women's University High School Astronomy Club took center stage at a special planetarium presentation, guiding audiences through the night sky using their own carefully crafted programs. The young astronomers projected constellations, told celestial stories, and shared their passion for the cosmos in an immersive dome setting. Events like this showcase the vibrant educational and cultural scene thriving in the Tama Area, where students engage in creative, community-facing projects that inspire both peers and visitors interested in science and the stars.
Read article →TAMATAMA FESTIVAL 2026: Culture Festival in Tama New Town
Tama New Town becomes the stage for TAMATAMA FESTIVAL 2026, a creative cultural festival bringing together music, art, and community. The first lineup announcement features acclaimed artist Toko Miura and popular indie band YOGEE NEW WAVES, promising an unforgettable experience. Set against the iconic townscape of Tama, this festival celebrates the area's evolving cultural identity and offers visitors a fresh way to enjoy live music and local atmosphere. A must-visit event for anyone exploring contemporary culture in western Tokyo.
Read article →TAMATAMA FESTIVAL 2026: Toko Miura & YOGEE NEW WAVES Headline Tama New Town Cultural Festival
The Tama New Town area is set to become a vibrant stage for pop culture with TAMATAMA FESTIVAL 2026, a unique 'cultural festival' celebrating music, art, and community. The first wave of announced performers includes acclaimed artist Toko Miura and the beloved indie band YOGEE NEW WAVES, promising unforgettable performances. This festival highlights the creative energy of one of Tokyo's most iconic planned communities, blending nostalgia with contemporary vibes. Whether you're a music fan or curious about Tama's evolving cultural scene, this festival is a must-experience event that showcases the area's charm.
Read article →Aurore Bakery Hachioji to Open Late September at Green Walk Tama
Bread lovers rejoice! Popular bakery Aurore is opening its new Hachioji location at the Green Walk Tama shopping complex in late September. Known for its artisanal breads and pastries, Aurore brings a fresh culinary destination to western Tokyo's Tama area. The Green Walk Tama shopping mall is already a beloved local hangout, and this new addition promises to elevate its foodie appeal. Whether you're stopping by for a fresh baguette, a buttery croissant, or a sweet treat, this bakery is set to become a delicious new reason to visit Hachioji.
Read article →Keio Railway Joins TAMATAMA FESTIVAL 2026 with Simultaneous Keio eSports Event
Keio Corporation is joining forces with TAMATAMA FESTIVAL 2026 as a co-host, adding even more excitement to this pop culture celebration in Tama New Town. As part of the collaboration, Keio will host its own 'Keio eSports Festival' running simultaneously, bringing gaming enthusiasts and pop culture fans together in one unforgettable weekend. This partnership highlights how the Tama area continues to blend traditional community spirit with cutting-edge entertainment. Easy to reach via Keio Line trains, this festival is a fantastic destination for anyone eager to experience Tokyo's evolving creative culture beyond the city center.
Read article →TAMATAMA FESTIVAL 2026 Details Announced: Music Festival Debuts at Parthenon Tama, Curry Fest & eSports
The pop culture festival set in Tama New Town returns in 2026 with an expanded lineup. For the first time, Parthenon Tama will host a full-scale music festival, alongside a curry festival celebrating Tama Center's identity as a curry town, and exciting eSports events. This multi-venue celebration brings together music, food, gaming, and anime culture across the Tama Center area. Whether you're a foodie, music lover, or gamer, TAMATAMA FESTIVAL offers a uniquely local yet internationally appealing experience showcasing the vibrant creative scene of western Tokyo's iconic new town.
Read article →Keio eSports Festival 2026 Comes to Tama Center on October 18
Keio Corporation is launching its first eSports festival at Tama Center on October 18, 2026, bringing gamers and the local community together. Held in tandem with TAMATAMA FESTIVAL 2026, the event features hands-on game experiences, exciting stage programs, and tournaments that will transform Tama Center into a gaming paradise for a day. With easy access via Keio Line trains, this free festival is perfect for eSports enthusiasts, families, and curious visitors wanting to experience Japan's evolving gaming culture in the heart of Tama.
Read article →Night Marché - Starry Sky Gourmet Nights - Comes to Tama Central Park
Tama Central Park transforms into a magical open-air food festival on August 29-30, 2026, with the Night Marché - Starry Sky Gourmet Night. Visitors can enjoy the golden magic hour while sampling delicious gourmet dishes from local vendors, all under a canopy of stars. Combining the excitement of a summer festival with a relaxed marché atmosphere, this evening event offers the perfect way to experience Tama City's community spirit. Bring a friend, grab some food, and soak in one of the season's most atmospheric outdoor gatherings.
Read article →Lost Something in Tama? New Find Chat Network Makes Recovery Easier
Travel around the Tama area with peace of mind: Keio Corporation and three other transit operators have joined the 'find chat' cross-search network, making lost item recovery smoother than ever. This new service allows visitors to search across multiple transportation companies simultaneously, saving time and stress when belongings go missing. For international travelers exploring western Tokyo's train and bus networks, this behind-the-scenes improvement means fewer worries and more time to enjoy the sights, food, and culture of the Tama region.
Read article →KDDI Art Gallery to Host Free Summer Tours During Tama Center Festival
KDDI is opening its private art museum, the KDDI ART GALLERY at Tama Center, for free guided tours during a special summer festival. Usually inaccessible to the public, this hidden gem inside KDDI's Tama facility offers a rare opportunity to appreciate a curated art collection in a corporate setting. The summer event provides visitors with cultural discovery beyond the usual tourist trail, making it a must-visit for art enthusiasts exploring the Tama area. A perfect complement to a day of festival hopping in Tama Center.
Read article →Tama Kids Food Stall Championship 2026 Comes to Tama Center on Sept 19-20
Elementary school students take center stage at this unique festival where kids learn real business skills by running their own food stalls. Held at Tama Center on September 19-20, 2026, the event combines entrepreneurial education with festive fun, letting young participants experience the thrill of planning, pricing, and selling to real customers. Visitors can enjoy delicious festival food while supporting the next generation of local business leaders. It's a heartwarming celebration of community, learning, and traditional Japanese matsuri culture that families won't want to miss.
Read article →KDDI Hosts Summer Festival at Tama Center: Learn About Communication, Science & Disaster Prevention
KDDI brings an educational summer festival to Tama Center, offering visitors a fun and interactive way to explore the worlds of communications technology, science, and disaster preparedness. Perfect for families and curious minds, the event combines hands-on learning with the festive atmosphere of a traditional Japanese summer matsuri. Discover how cutting-edge tech shapes our daily lives while enjoying the vibrant community spirit of Tama Center. A great opportunity to blend entertainment and education in one of Tama's most dynamic hubs.
Read article →Takushoku University Students Design Tokyo Magewappa Craft Using Tama-Grown Timber
Students at Takushoku University have collaborated to design a stunning "Tokyo Magewappa" — a traditional bentwood craft — using timber sourced from the Tama region's forests. Now available as a hometown tax return gift, the elegant wooden vessels showcase the beauty of local sustainable materials combined with fresh, youthful design sensibilities. This project bridges centuries-old Japanese craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics, celebrating both Tama's rich natural resources and the creative energy of its student community. A perfect example of how tradition and innovation flourish in western Tokyo.
Read article →Tama Business Design Camp 2026: Students Tackle Local Challenges Across Kunitachi, Tachikawa, Hino & Hachioji
Four Tama cities — Kunitachi, Tachikawa, Hino, and Hachioji — join forces with six universities to launch the Tama Business Design Camp 2026, an ambitious program empowering students to tackle real regional challenges through entrepreneurship and creative thinking. This collaborative initiative supports young people who want to challenge themselves while contributing to their community's future. It highlights the Tama Area's growing reputation as a hub for innovation, education, and civic engagement, showcasing how academia and local government together nurture the next generation of leaders in western Tokyo.
Read article →Gyoza & Karaage Festival Coming to Mitsui Outlet Park Tama Minamiosawa Sept 20-22
Food lovers, mark your calendars! Mitsui Outlet Park Tama Minamiosawa in Hachioji hosts a mouthwatering Gyoza & Karaage Festival from September 20-22. This three-day feast celebrates two of Japan's most beloved comfort foods — crispy fried chicken and savory dumplings — with a lineup of top vendors serving up their finest creations. Combine shopping with satisfying eats in one of the Tama Area's most popular outlet destinations. Whether you're a gyoza purist or a karaage connoisseur, this festival promises delicious discoveries in a lively autumn atmosphere.
Read article →Tama Zoological Park Offers Free Admission for Seniors and Companions Sept 15-21
Tama Zoological Park in Hino welcomes seniors aged 60 and over, plus one accompanying guest, with free admission from September 15-21. This special week is a wonderful opportunity to explore one of Tokyo's largest and most beloved zoos, home to lions, giraffes, koalas, and countless other animals across its sprawling natural landscapes. Whether you're a longtime fan or first-time visitor, the park's spacious grounds and rich biodiversity make for a relaxing, memorable outing. A generous gesture that highlights Tama's family-friendly and inclusive spirit.
Read article →The 27th Tokyo Tama Taiko Festival to be Held on October 25
Experience the thunderous power and rhythm of traditional Japanese drumming at the 27th Tokyo Tama Taiko Festival, coming to Hachioji on October 25. This beloved annual event brings together top wadaiko performers from across the Tama region and beyond, offering visitors a chance to witness spectacular live performances that showcase the spiritual and physical intensity of taiko drumming. Whether you're a longtime fan of Japanese percussion or a curious first-timer, the festival promises an unforgettable cultural experience filled with energy, tradition, and community spirit. A must-visit autumn event for anyone exploring western Tokyo.
Read article →Four Tama Cities and Six Universities Collaborate to Support Students' Ambitions
A new initiative brings together four cities in the Tama area and six universities to nurture the entrepreneurial and creative spirit of local students. This exciting collaboration aims to provide resources, mentorship, and opportunities for young people who want to take on new challenges, whether in business, community projects, or creative endeavors. The partnership highlights Tama's growing reputation as a vibrant academic and innovation hub in western Tokyo, where town-gown connections are actively shaping the region's future. Visitors and residents alike can look forward to fresh events and student-led projects emerging from this dynamic collaboration.
Read article →Tama Center 'Beer Garden' Opens August 21 on the Oka-no-ue Plaza Rooftop
Craft beer lovers, take note! From August 21, the rooftop of Oka-no-ue Plaza in Tama Center transforms into 'Beer Garden' (Biru no Niwa), an open-air venue where visitors can sample a rotating selection of Japanese craft beers under the summer sky. Set in the heart of Tama New Town, the event offers a relaxed, breezy atmosphere perfect for evening gatherings after exploring the area's shops and parks. Whether you're a hop enthusiast or just curious to try local brews, this seasonal pop-up is a great excuse to discover a different side of Tama's nightlife.
Read article →Gyoza & Karaage Festival at Mitsui Outlet Park Tama Minami-Osawa from Sept 20
Two of Japan's most beloved comfort foods take center stage at Mitsui Outlet Park Tama Minami-Osawa this September. Starting September 20, the 'Gyoza & Karaage Festival' brings together regional specialties from across the country, letting visitors compare crispy fried chicken and juicy dumplings prepared in wildly different local styles. Combine a day of shopping at the outlet mall with a foodie adventure—perfect for families and travelers looking to sample Japan's diverse regional flavors all in one convenient Hachioji location.
Read article →'Green Summer Park 2026' at Tama Chuo Park's Green Live Center on August 22
Tama Chuo Park's Green Live Center hosts 'Green Summer Park 2026' on August 22, a family-friendly outdoor event celebrating plants, greenery, and summer fun. Nestled in a lush corner of Tama City, the Green Live Center is a peaceful oasis with gardens, workshops, and seasonal displays. Expect hands-on activities, botanical exhibits, and plenty of chances to slow down and appreciate the natural beauty of the Tama Hills. It's an ideal weekend outing for families, gardening enthusiasts, or anyone seeking a green escape close to central Tokyo.
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