Guida
Kamosan Park is a sprawling 15-hectare urban park located adjacent to the urban area of Kamo City, Niigata Prefecture. The park features a diverse landscape including green spaces, walking paths, and an observation plaza, centered around the historic Omi Shrine. One of the most significant features of this park is its status as one of Japan's premier sites for Camellia sasanqua. With approximately 1,300 trees of about 100 different species, the park offers a unique spectacle in spring when the camellias and cherry blossoms bloom simultaneously. Additionally, the park is a hub for recreation, featuring a dedicated Squirrel Garden for interacting with chipmunks, a roller slider for children, various sculptures, and an observation deck that blends nature with leisure activities.
Mount Kamo has long been a site of local spiritual devotion, developing as a sacred area centered around Omi Shrine. In modern times, the area has been developed into a public park, with significant efforts made to preserve and plant the native Camellia sasanqua. During the Showa era, the park's functions were expanded through the installation of sculptures, playground equipment, and the establishment of the Squirrel Garden. Today, it serves not only as a peaceful retreat for local citizens but also as a destination for tourists seeking to connect with nature and wildlife.
There are numerous spots within the park to enjoy the changing seasons. The most spectacular sight is the coexistence of Camellia sasanqua and cherry blossoms in the spring. At the Squirrel Garden, you can observe free-roaming chipmunks up close and enjoy the experience of feeding them using food purchased from the onsite vending machines. The park also features various art sculptures along the walking paths, allowing visitors to experience culture while walking through the undulating terrain. From the observation deck, you can enjoy a panoramic view of the surrounding mountains and the cityscape below.
The park offers different charms depending on the season. The peak season is from late March to mid-April, when the camellias and cherry blossoms bloom together, creating a breathtaking landscape. Autumn also brings beautiful foliage. Please note that the operating hours for the Squirrel Garden vary by season; while it typically operates from 10:00 to 16:00, it stays open until 17:00 during the summer months (June to August). We recommend visiting in the morning when the sunlight is gentle or in the late afternoon for a relaxing stroll.
The park is packed with activities suitable for families and children. The Squirrel Garden is a popular spot where children can learn about nature through feeding the chipmunks. For more active play, the park includes a roller slider and various other playground equipment. The well-maintained walking paths and observation deck are also excellent for photography, picnics, or light jogging. Observing animals and plants in their natural habitat provides an educational and enriching experience for children.
The park houses the historic Omi Shrine, providing a sense of cultural depth. Its convenient location, within walking distance from Kamo Station, makes it easy to combine a visit with other sightseeing in the city. The surrounding area also features the Kamo River green space, allowing visitors to plan a longer itinerary to fully enjoy the natural beauty of the Kamo region.
Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended due to the undulating paths. If you wish to feed the chipmunks, please ensure you have 100 yen coins ready; the food is sold via vending machines and does not accept credit cards or electronic money. As the chipmunks are living creatures, please observe them from a distance and do not attempt to catch them or touch them. For your safety and the preservation of the park, the use of open flames (such as campfires) and driving vehicles into unauthorized areas are strictly prohibited. If you intend to conduct professional photography, prior permission and a fee are required.