Guida
Michinoku Mori no Kohante National Government Park is a massive national park covering 647.4 hectares, situated along the shores of Kabusabō Dam in Kawasaki Town, Shibata District, Miyagi Prefecture. As a key recreational facility designed to serve the Tohoku region, it holds the distinction of being the only national government park in the area. The park is strategically divided into four main zones: the North District (Health and Greenery), the South District (Culture and Water), the Satoyama District (Forest and Environment), and the Lakefront/Lakeside Zone. This layout creates a harmonious space where natural landscapes meet cultural heritage.
The foundation of the park, known as the Kabusabō Lakeside Park, was completed in 1980. Following this, the 'Michinoku Mori no Kohante National Government Park Project' began in 1981 to further develop the area. A portion of the park opened in 1989, and the entire complex was fully completed in 2014. Over the years, it has been meticulously developed as a premier destination for recreation that utilizes the natural environment of Tohoku. The 'Furusato Village' area, in particular, serves as a vital repository for preserving and showcasing the traditional lifestyles and architectural styles of the Tohoku region.
The park offers diverse areas tailored to different interests. The 'Culture and Water Zone' in the South District features the 'Furusato Village,' where traditional houses from various parts of Tohoku have been relocated and reconstructed. Visitors can see authentic dwellings from Tsugaru (Aomori), Tono (Iwate), Honjo Y uri (Akita), the foothills of Mt. Gassan (Yamagata), Minami-Aizu (Fukushima), and the Naruse River/Kabusabō-style houses (Miyagi). The scenery is completed by reconstructed terraced rice fields, watermills, charcoal-burning huts, and water channels, recreating the nostalgic landscapes of old Japan. Additionally, the park features several large open spaces such as 'Toki no Hiroba,' 'Sai no Hiroba,' and 'Imoni-kai Hiroba' for relaxation.
The park is characterized by its stunning seasonal transformations. You can enjoy blooming flowers in spring, lush greenery in summer, vibrant autumn foliage, and serene winter landscapes. Various seasonal events are held throughout the year, with information often shared via official channels. Daytime is the most popular time for families and recreational visitors, while the scenery of the lakeside changes beautifully toward the evening. Please note that opening hours may vary depending on the season, so it is advisable to check before your visit.
There are numerous ways to engage with nature here. For those looking to stay overnight, the camping area features 30 cottages, some of which allow for stays even without bringing your own camping gear. There are also dedicated play areas for children, making it an ideal spot for family outings. The Furusato Village offers an educational aspect, allowing visitors to learn about the traditional dwellings and lifestyles of the Tohoku region. Whether you are walking through the forest, resting in a plaza, or camping by the lake, the park provides a deep connection to the natural world.
The park is seamlessly integrated with the landscape of the Kabusabō Dam (Kabusabō Lake). The surrounding environment is rich in nature, providing a perfect backdrop for outdoor activities. Each area—themed around 'Health and Greenery,' 'Culture and Water,' or 'Forest and Environment'—offers a unique way to experience the local ecosystem and scenery.
Due to the vast size of the park, we highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and bringing clothing suitable for the weather. If you plan to use the camping facilities, ensure you have the necessary gear. Regarding payments, please check in advance whether the specific shop or facility accepts cash, credit cards, or transit IC cards, as policies vary. Please respect the park rules and maintain proper etiquette to protect the natural environment and facilities.