Guida
Tenpyo no Oka Park is an expansive park located in Shimotsuke City, Tochigi Prefecture. It offers a unique coexistence of natural forests and significant historical sites, providing breathtaking scenery that changes with every season. The park is particularly famous during the spring, when approximately 500 cherry trees bloom in full glory. From late March to late April, the 'Tenpyo Flower Festival' attracts many visitors. Within the park, you can enjoy a blend of nature, history, and gastronomy through cultural facilities and charming cafes housed in renovated traditional folk houses.
The area is deeply connected to the 8th-century era of Emperor Shomu, who ruled Japan through the spread of Buddhism. The park contains the remains of the Kokubunji and Kokubun-niji temples, which are designated national historical sites. Visitors can feel the weight of history through these well-preserved structures. Additionally, Kunimiyama Hill, surrounded by moats and stone walls, features a large stone known as the 'Zensei (Nari) Stone.' A unique local phenomenon occurs when you clap your hands below the stone; the sound echoes back in a distinctive way.
The greatest appeal of the park lies in its seasonal events and natural landscapes. Highlights include the spring cherry blossoms, the 'Shimotsuke Tosakukai' lantern event that illuminates the summer nights, and the 'Tenpyo Imo-ni Festival' held every November. For those interested in ancient Japanese culture, the 'Shimotsuke Fudoki no Oka Museum' displays excavated Haniwa (clay figures) and pottery from the Kotsuka Kofun, offering a window into the past. Walking through the natural forest paths and relaxing at a cafe set within a traditional folk house are also highly recommended experiences.
Spring (late March to late April) is the most vibrant season, characterized by the blooming of 500 cherry trees during the Tenpyo Flower Festival. In the summer, the 'Shimotsuke Tosakukai' features thousands of cup-shaped lanterns that create a mystical atmosphere around the folk houses. In autumn, the 'Tenpyo Imo-ni Festival' held on the first Sunday of November offers a chance to enjoy traditional savory rice porridge (Imo-ni) cooked in large pots. We recommend strolling through the forest during the day and enjoying the illuminated scenery in the evening.
Visitors can engage in historical learning and nature walks. Activities include exploring the museum exhibits and relaxing at a renovated folk house cafe. A must-try experience is testing the acoustics of the 'Zensei Stone' on Kunimiyama Hill by clapping your hands. During seasonal festivals, the park transforms into a lively area with various food stalls where you can sample local delicacies.
The surrounding area is dotted with historical remains such as the Kokubji and Kokubun-niji temple sites. These are integral parts of the park's identity and serve as important landmarks for understanding ancient Japanese architecture and culture. The park also serves as an excellent base for exploring other tourist destinations within Tochigi Prefecture due to its accessible location.