Guide
Keya Ootokouen Park is a scenic park and nature trail located along the coast of Itoshima City, Fukuoka Prefecture. This area is affectionately known as the 'Totoro Forest' due to its enchanting and unique landscapes. The park's walking paths are enveloped by dense greenery, creating a tranquil space that feels completely disconnected from the modern world. After a pleasant 10-minute walk through the forested path, you will reach an observation deck. From here, you can gaze upon the rear of Kea no Ootokami, a massive basalt cave renowned as one of the largest of its kind in Japan. It is a perfect spot to experience both the breathtaking beauty of natural formations and profound silence.
The area is part of the Genkai National Park and is a highly significant region for nature conservation. The adjacent Kea no Ootokami is a geological marvel, boasting a height of 64m, a depth of 90m, and a width of 10m. Its distinctive columnar jointing is recognized as a National Natural Monument of Japan. The park's trails have been carefully maintained to allow visitors to experience this grand natural history firsthand while enjoying a path that leads toward the sea.
The ultimate highlight is the observation deck at the end of the trail. Here, you can witness the powerful landscape created by wave erosion, featuring massive rock walls and the striking patterns of basalt columnar joints. The journey itself is an experience; the trail acts as a lush green tunnel, much like the setting of a Studio Ghibli film, earning it the nickname 'Totoro Forest.' The route, which passes by Taiso Shrine, is a path where you can truly feel the raw energy of nature.
While you can enjoy nature throughout the year, the period from April to November is particularly pleasant for walking while feeling the refreshing sea breeze. During the bright daylight hours, the contrast between the blue sky and the deep green foliage is stunning, providing clear views from the observation deck. For those seeking a more mystical atmosphere, visiting in the early morning or at dusk offers a quiet, ethereal experience as the 'Totoro Forest' comes alive with shadows and soft light.
The primary activity here is a 'nature walk.' Walking through the well-maintained forest trail allows for a sense of 'forest bathing' (shinrin-yoku), where the process of reaching the observation deck becomes a meditative experience of becoming one with nature. Visitors can also enjoy strolling along the nearby coastline to admire the coastal scenery.
Very close to the park is the Taiso Shrine, a place of local spiritual significance. The coastline also features Niginohama Beach, known for its beautiful white sand and green pine trees. Additionally, the Keya Campground is located nearby, making it easy to plan an overnight stay to fully immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Itoshima. Combining these spots will allow for a much deeper exploration of the region.
As this is a nature trail, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes, as there may be uneven or unpaved sections. It is also wise to bring a hat for sun protection and plenty of water to stay hydrated. As this is a public natural space, please follow local etiquette by taking all your trash home with you to protect the environment. While there is no entrance fee for the park itself, please note that nearby facilities or parking lots may require cash or electronic money for payment.