Guida
Nanakutsudo Park is a beautifully developed park located in the outskirts of Mito City, Ibaraki Prefecture, designed to highlight and preserve its natural environment. Its most striking feature is the authentic 'English Landscape Garden,' designed by a British landscape consultant using materials imported directly from the UK. Throughout the park, visitors can discover various pavilions and follies (decorative architectural structures) that mimic the British landscape, creating a harmonious blend of man-made elegance and natural beauty.
The park is divided into two main areas: Area A, which centers around the 'Secret Garden' with its 50m diameter circular flowerbed, and Area B, which consists of five dams and several ponds. The park gained international recognition as a filming location for the movie 'Thermae Romae,' as its scenery evokes the atmosphere of ancient Rome, drawing many enthusiasts to its unique vistas.
The development of this park began in 1987 as part of the 'Furusato no Mori' (Hometown Forest) project. In 1989, it was selected as a 'Furusato Ikimono no Sato' (Hometown Habitat for Living Things) by the Environment Agency (now the Ministry of the Environment), ensuring the preservation of a rich ecosystem. The name 'Nanakutsudo' originates from the historical presence of seven ancient burial mounds (kofun) in the nearby Gongenyama Cave Group.
Despite facing challenges such as the damage caused by the 2011 Great East Japan Earthquake, the park has successfully maintained its beautiful, harmonious landscape. The popularity of the park saw a significant boost following the filming of 'Thermae Romae' in 2012.
The park offers diverse spots based on British design principles. The 'Secret Garden' is a standout, characterized by its beautifully arranged circular flowerbeds. The pavilions and follies scattered throughout the park use stone and brick imported from the UK, creating a unique fusion of Western architectural forms within a Japanese natural setting.
Another highlight is the water-side scenery. The landscape features a seamless integration of water and greenery, including dams, ponds, and an area known as the 'Serpentine.' The park also serves as a vital habitat for various species, including Genji and Heike fireflies and numerous dragonflies, making it an excellent spot for nature observation.
The park's appearance changes beautifully with the seasons. In spring, the 'Secret Garden' becomes a focal point for flower viewing, and the landscape evolves alongside the seasonal growth of plants. The dense forests allow visitors to experience the changing colors of nature throughout the year.
For the best experience, we recommend strolling during daylight hours. Please note that lighting is kept to a minimum at night to preserve the natural environment, making the park very dark. Especially near the dams and water areas, visibility is low; if you visit during the evening, please carry a flashlight and proceed with caution.
The park is ideal for leisurely walks and nature observation. You can enjoy forest bathing along wooden stairs and walking paths set against the backdrop of the English-style garden. It is a wonderful place to encounter seasonal insects and plants in a tranquil setting.
The park is adjacent to facilities such as the Agricultural General Center and the Agricultural Research Institute. It is easily accessible by car via the Joban Expressway (Mito Kita Smart IC or Naka IC).
Because the park utilizes the natural terrain, many paths include unpaved sections, stairs, slopes, and uneven surfaces. We highly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. If you plan to be active near dusk, please bring a flashlight.