The pond’s name translates to 'the source of the well' or 'the place that gives water'.
It was the first suburban park to be established in Tokyo, officially opened to the public in 1918.
The statue of Benzaiten on the central island is believed to have been carved by the Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi.
Local urban legend warns that couples who ride the swan boats together on the pond will eventually break up due to the jealousy of the resident Benzaiten.
The pond has undergone extensive water quality restoration projects, including dredging, to maintain its status as a vital urban blue space.
Inokashira Pond serves as the central feature of Inokashira Onshi Park, acting as the headwaters of the Kanda River. The pond is categorized into three distinct areas: Inokashira Pond, the western pond, and the Komaba pond. It is a historical site originally commissioned by the Tokugawa shogunate to provide a water supply for Edo. The surrounding park area covers approximately 380,000 square meters. A small island within the pond houses a temple dedicated to Benzaiten, the Buddhist goddess of water and music. The pond remains a managed urban reservoir integral to the local ecosystem and flood prevention systems. It is surrounded by lush walking trails, dense groves of cherry trees, and local wildlife habitats. The site is a primary destination for seasonal hanami during the spring blossom period.
The small red bridge connecting to the Benzaiten shrine island offers the most iconic framing of the water and surrounding trees.
Rent a swan-shaped pedal boat to access the center of the pond for a unique water-level view.
Explore the walking paths that loop around the entire pond perimeter to discover hidden sub-ponds and observation decks.
Visit the small shrine dedicated to Benzaiten located on the island accessible via a pedestrian bridge.
Avoid visiting on public holiday afternoons during the cherry blossom season, as the paths become extremely congested.
