Guide
Tove Jansson Akebono no Kodomo no Mori Park is a beautiful urban park located in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture. The park's most distinctive feature is its theme: the whimsical world of the Moomins, created by the renowned Finnish author and artist Tove Jansson. Within the park, visitors can encounter facilities and exhibits that recreate the atmosphere of the Moomin stories, inviting travelers of all ages to step into a beloved piece of literary history. It is widely known as a place where both children and adults can enjoy a slow, relaxing pace of life amidst lush greenery.
The history of this park began with a single letter sent to Tove Jansson by a Hanno city official. This connection led to the park being designated under the national project for the creation of memorial parks. The park opened on July 1, 1997, as "Akebono no Kodomo no Mori Park." The name "Akebono" (meaning dawn) is derived from the discovery of fossils of the prehistoric elephant species Akebonozo elephant in the surrounding area. In June 2017, with the official approval of Sophia Jansson—the daughter of Tove Jansson and a representative of the Moomin Characters organization—the park was renamed to its current title: "Tove Jansson Akebono no Kodomo no Mori Park."
A central attraction is the building designed to resemble the "Moomin House," a symbol of the Moomin world. The park also houses facilities containing various materials related to Tove Jansson and Moomin books, allowing visitors to experience the cultural depth of the stories. The landscape is characterized by beautiful groves of trees, including the prominent Metasequoia (dawn redwood) planted primarily in the northern section, creating a seamless blend of natural scenery and character-driven fantasy.
To fully enjoy the lush scenery and the Moomin-themed facilities, visiting during the bright daylight hours is highly recommended. The park's appearance changes beautifully with the seasons; a stroll through the greenery is particularly refreshing during the seasons when the foliage is most vibrant. The park is generally open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visiting in the early morning or during the calm afternoon hours provides a particularly serene experience.
The park is designed as a space for connecting with nature. It offers an excellent environment for children to play and explore, making it a perfect spot for family picnics and strolls. Visitors can enjoy quiet activities such as reading a book in a peaceful setting or simply listening to the sounds of the surrounding forest while immersed in the Moomin atmosphere.
The park is adjacent to the Asu Sports Park. This entire area is characterized by a rich, well-maintained natural environment with vast stretches of greenery, providing a tranquil escape from the urban bustle.
As the park involves walking through natural terrain, we recommend wearing comfortable clothing and sturdy walking shoes. Please prepare clothing appropriate for the season to ensure a comfortable visit. To protect the natural environment, please follow all park rules and practice proper etiquette, such as taking your trash home with you.