My two boys are absolutely obsessed with trains! Honestly, neither my husband nor I ever had any interest in railways, but we’ve started scouting for “train spots” every day just to see that look of pure joy on our children’s faces.
Today, I’m excited to share a perfect find: Café de Crié, conveniently connected directly to Tachikawa Station!
What is Café de Crié (Tachikawa)?
Located on the 8th floor of Granduo Tachikawa, directly connected to the station, the access is absolutely unbeatable! It’s a popular hotspot for families because the window seats offer a wide-open view of various vehicles passing by. It’s truly a haven for little transportation fans.
Before You Go: Tips for a Smooth Visit
- Stroller Access: Please note that strollers cannot be taken into the seating area. You will need to park them at the entrance, so it’s easier if your little ones can walk or if you use a baby carrier.
- Weekend Crowds: It gets extremely busy on weekends! Since the “train view” is the main attraction, it’s not really worth it if you can’t get a window seat. I highly recommend arriving early or visiting during off-peak hours to secure a spot.
- Weekdays are a Breeze: On the other hand, it’s usually quite empty and easy to enter even during lunch hours on weekdays. If you have the chance, a weekday visit is definitely the way to go!
What Can You See? (The Vehicle List)
Tachikawa is a major hub where the Chuo Line and Ome Line meet, and the Tama Monorail runs right through it as well.
But that’s not all—since the Yokota Air Base is nearby, you can often spot various aircraft flying across the sky! With so many different types of vehicles visible from a single window, any transportation-loving child will be mesmerized and never get bored.
- Trains: Chuo Line, Limited Express “Kaiji,” and powerful Freight Trains.
- Monorail: The Tama Monorail gliding right by.
- In the Sky: Helicopters and Airplanes (thanks to the nearby air base!).
- On the Road: Buses, Ambulances, and big Trucks moving below.
- Special Bonus: On clear days, you can even see Mount Fuji in the distance!
Here is a glimpse of what the train view is like. Since the Ome Line uses the same train models as the Chuo Line, you won’t see a huge variety of colors, but the trains depart very frequently! You’ll also spot the Limited Express “Kaiji” and “Azusa,” as well as heavy freight trains passing through. Just a quick heads-up: the Nambu Line terminates at a platform that isn’t visible from this cafe.
If you look toward the Ome Line tracks in the distance (on the far right), you might catch a glimpse of airplanes in the sky, thanks to Yokota Air Base located in Fussa City.
The Tama Monorail is also a highlight! Many of the cars feature colorful “wraps” (special designs), making them so much fun to watch.
Looking down, you can see the bus stops and taxi stands at the South Exit of Tachikawa Station—perfect for kids who love seeing buses and city life in action. Plus, thanks to the amazing vantage point, you can enjoy a clear view of Mount Fuji on sunny days!
Baby-Friendly Facilities
Inside Granduo Tachikawa, you’ll find a fantastic baby lounge on the 4th floor, featuring spacious diaper-changing areas and private nursing rooms. The entire building is very welcoming to families, offering a wide range of services specifically for those with small children. It’s a huge relief to know everything you need is right there!
The baby care area on the 4th floor is impressively equipped:
- Three Diaper-Changing Tables
- Spacious Layout
- Hot Water Dispenser: A dedicated machine for preparing baby formula is available.
There are chairs in the back of the lounge, making it a great spot for a quick rest. The area is spacious enough to navigate even with multiple children or a bulky stroller!
The absolute highlight for me was the tatami (mat) area inside the nursing room. It’s such a thoughtful touch! It’s perfect for laying your baby down to nap or letting them stretch out for a bit. Having a soft, flat space like this was a total lifesaver during our busy day out.
Other Cafe Options in the Building
- 2nd Floor: Starbucks Coffee
- 3rd Floor: Gong cha (Great for bubble tea lovers!)
- 6th Floor: Tully’s Coffee
One of the best things about being directly connected to the station is that you don’t have to step outside. When the kids finally fall asleep, you can move around without worrying about the heat or cold waking them up. Being able to enjoy a peaceful moment for yourself without that extra stress was such a healing experience.
Conclusion
Café de Crié in Granduo Tachikawa is truly a gem where you can enjoy fantastic train views while benefiting from top-notch, baby-friendly facilities. It’s a rare spot that guarantees satisfaction for both kids and parents! If you’re passing through Tachikawa Station, be sure to stop by and experience this wonderful oasis for yourself.
