Showa Kinen Park — Attraction in Tokyo

Showa Memorial Park, also known as Showa Kinen Park, is a beautiful and extensive national park located in Tachikawa, Tokyo, Japan. It was opened in 1983 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Emperor Showa's reign. The park covers an area of approximately 163 hectares (403 acres), which makes it one of the largest parks in Tokyo.

The park offers a wide variety of natural and cultural facilities, and it's designed to enable visitors to enjoy the changing of the seasons. Here are some of the main features of the park:

Japanese Garden: A traditional Japanese landscape garden with a large pond, tea houses, and a variety of plants that change with the seasons.

Bonsai Garden: Here you can see a collection of miniature trees styled in the traditional art of Bonsai.

Giant Ball Field: An open area where you can enjoy various sports.

Barbecue Garden: A dedicated area for barbecuing, popular among families and groups.

Children's Forest: This area includes nature-themed playgrounds, a tree house, a bouncing dome, and an adventure trail.

Water Park: This area is particularly popular in summer and includes a wading pool and a mist plaza.

Tachikawa Cycling Course: You can rent bicycles and ride around the park.

Bird Sanctuary: An area reserved for bird-watching.

Poppy Hills: A field full of poppy and cosmos flowers.

The park is also known for its beautiful seasonal views: cherry blossoms in spring, tulips and poppies in early summer, cosmos in autumn, and ginkgo trees in winter. The park's management organizes various events throughout the year, including a Flower Festival in the spring and an illumination event in the winter.

The park is easily accessible from central Tokyo, and it serves as a valuable recreational area for people of all ages. Whether you're interested in nature, sports, or cultural activities, Showa Memorial Park offers something...

A huge park that’s three times the size of Shinjuku Gyoen National Park.

There are several gates to enter and exit from, but you will probably enter through Tachikawa or Nishi-Tachikawa Gate if you are taking the train from central Tokyo (Shinjuku Station) via JR Chuo towards Ome.

You will need to buy a ticket from the window or one of the machines. There is an option for English or other languages. You can even pay using your Suica or other IC card.

When I went (May and November 2022) there were many food options from takoyaki to udon to rice plates. There is basically a mini outdoor ‘food court’ in every part of the park. There are also many vending machines near the food places and trash cans, too.

There are designated and paved bike and walk lanes, so it is safe and accessible. There is a huge open grass lawn to picnic or lie down or run around, plus a playground area with play structures for kids.

There is a Japanese garden, tennis courts, cherry blossom area, and more I didn’t get to explore.

The only negative thing for me was that many structures and buildings were outdated such as old benches and old bathrooms. Like in most Japanese park bathrooms, most of the stalls were ‘Asian’ squat style and they were a bit dirty.

This park has a lot to offer, and I loook forward to visiting again in the spring when the cherry blossoms are at their peak!

It is pretty busy during autumn season, but since it’s so big, you can still take nice photos...

Showa Memorial Park, located in Tachikawa, Tokyo, is a vast oasis of natural beauty and recreational delights, spanning over 160 hectares. Established to commemorate Emperor Showa's 50th anniversary on the throne, this park is a cherished destination for locals and tourists alike. Its picturesque landscape features lush forests, vibrant flower gardens, serene lakes, and open meadows, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling city life.

One of the park's main attractions is the diverse flora that changes with the seasons, showcasing blooming cherry blossoms in spring and vibrant foliage in autumn. The park is also home to various recreational facilities, including cycling trails, barbecue areas, and playgrounds, making it a perfect spot for families and outdoor enthusiasts. The expansive lawn areas offer ample space for picnics and relaxation, creating a welcoming environment for visitors of all ages.

Showa Memorial Park's cultural significance is highlighted by the Bonsai Museum, showcasing exquisite miniature trees, and the Fureai Forest, a dedicated area for native plant preservation. Additionally, the park hosts seasonal events and festivals, adding to its charm and drawing crowds during traditional celebrations.

Overall, Showa Memorial Park stands as a testament to nature's beauty and Japan's rich cultural heritage, making it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking serenity and outdoor adventures in the...