Guide
Aricogawa Park is a comprehensive park spanning approximately 1 km along both sides of the Aricogawa River in Minato-ku, Nagoya, Aichi Prefecture. Opened in 1985, it serves as a vital urban botanical garden. The park features diverse areas including a lavender garden, a traditional Japanese garden, a sunken garden, a multi-purpose plaza, and the unique "Phoenix Island," an artificial island. The park also serves a cultural role through the Aricogawa Park Garden Plaza, which hosts plant exhibitions and educational workshops to promote urban greening.
The park was designated as a special park under urban planning in 1979. The original vision was to utilize the Aricogawa River canal while creating a buffer against urban pollution and providing a recreational space for citizens. Since its opening on April 1, 1985, the park has undergone continuous development. Key milestones include the completion of the Phoenix Island and fountain area in 1987, and the construction of the Aricogawa Park Bridge in 1991, which connects the two banks. The establishment of the Aricogawa Park Garden Plaza in 1993 further solidified its role as a center for botanical education and community engagement.
Visitors can enjoy a wide variety of landscapes throughout the park. The lavender garden is a standout feature, housing 3,000 plants across 18 different species, making it one of the most significant lavender sites in Aichi Prefecture. Along the banks of the Aricogawa River, approximately 1,000 cherry trees create a spectacular view during the spring season. Other notable areas include the Japanese garden, the sunken garden, and the tropical-themed Phoenix Island, where you can see species like Phoenix palms, Washingtonia palms, and cycads. The Garden Plaza offers a deeper connection to plant culture through its exhibitions.
The park offers different botanical wonders depending on the season. In spring, the 1,000 cherry trees create a breathtaking canopy. During the lavender season, the expansive lavender garden becomes a major draw. In winter, visitors can find camellia flowers in the sunken garden and seasonal blooms like red and white plums in the Japanese garden. For those wishing to use the Garden Plaza facilities or the cafe, please note the operating hours are 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM.
Aricogawa Park is a versatile space for recreation, learning, and relaxation. You can enjoy sports at the tennis courts or open plazas, use the free camping area (day camping), or even try fishing at Phoenix Island. The Garden Plaza provides opportunities for cultural enrichment through plant exhibitions and workshops. There is also a small cafe called "Shion" located within the Garden Plaza, where you can take a break and enjoy a drink.
Access is very convenient via the Aonami Line of the Nagoya Railroad, with Aricogawa Koen Station located near the park. The park serves as a vital recreational hub for local residents and visitors alike, with the Phoenix Bridge providing a scenic connection between the two sides of the river, creating a unified landscape experience.