Panduan
Located in Midori Ward, Chiba City, Showa no Mori Park is a massive comprehensive park spanning approximately 105.8 hectares. Part of the park is designated as the Prefectural Kujukuri Natural Park, ensuring a preserved and rich natural environment. A standout feature is the 101m high observatory, which offers a panoramic view of the Kujukuri Plain and the vast Pacific Ocean horizon. The park is also recognized as one of the '100 Best Urban Parks in Japan' and is equipped with diverse recreational facilities including campsites, baseball fields, tennis courts, and cycling/walking paths.
The park preserves the Ogyumichi Site, a significant historical landmark. Discovered during construction in 1976, this site is a designated historical monument of Chiba Prefecture. It contains three burial mounds (kofun) from the late Kofun period, as well as remains of 14 pit-dwellings from the Nara period and 75 structures from the Heian period. Some theories suggest the layout of these ancient structures shares similarities with the Sumiyoshi Taisha shrine in Osaka, making it a vital site for understanding ancient history. Geographically, the park serves as a watershed, where rainwater naturally divides into three different directions.
The park is divided into five distinct zones: Recreation, Observatory, Central Forest, Lodging/Outdoor Activities, and Sports. The absolute highlight is the 101m observatory, providing a stunning view of the Pacific Ocean beyond the Kujukuri Plain. The seasonal floral displays are also a major draw: rapeseed and cherry blossoms in March/April, azaleas and tsutsuji in May/early June, and hydrangeas or water lilies in the summer months. Each season offers a different beautiful landscape.
Spring (March–May) is ideal for walking amidst cherry blossoms and rapeseed flowers in mild weather. Early summer (June–July) is beautiful for seeing hydrangeas and iris, especially after the rain. Summer is the perfect season for camping and outdoor sports. While some areas are open 24 hours, please check in advance for specific facility usage or overnight stays. Daytime is the best time for observing plants and enjoying the view from the observatory.
There are plenty of ways to stay active. You can enjoy cycling or walking through the scenic paths, play sports at the tennis courts or baseball fields, or experience an overnight stay at the campsites. The 'Showa no Mori Forest Village' is specifically designed for outdoor enthusiasts, offering facilities for camping, training camps, and group activities, making it a perfect spot for families and groups seeking a nature-based retreat.
The area surrounding the park is a lush, green residential zone near Asumigaoka, leading toward central Chiba City. Visitors can combine a trip to the park with a stroll around nearby commercial areas like the Asumigaoka Brand New Mall. The unique topography of the park, acting as a watershed, also makes the surrounding river geography quite interesting to explore.
Due to the vast size of the park, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and activewear. If you plan to camp, ensure you bring appropriate gear. For facility fees (parking, cycling center, tennis courts, etc.), please prepare cash or electronic money. The park is highly accessible, featuring wheelchair-friendly ramps, wheelchair rentals, and accessible restrooms. While landscape photography is permitted, please respect the rules and maintain good manners regarding the historical sites and natural environment.