Shimizu Park

Shimizu Park is a vast natural park located in Noda City, Chiba Prefecture. Established in 1894 by the fifth generation head of Noda Soy Sauce, Mogi Kasuke, who borrowed part of Jikozan Kinjoin, it has expanded several times and now covers an area of approximately 280,000 square meters. Promoted under the catchphrase "Friends with Nature," the park emphasizes interaction with nature and is loved by a wide range of generations from children to adults.

Shimizu Park is renowned nationwide as a famous spot for seasonal flowers. In spring, around 2,000 cherry trees of approximately 50 different varieties, selected as one of the "100 Famous Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan," beautifully adorn the park and the surrounding areas. Along with the iconic Somei Yoshino variety, visitors can also see ancient trees over 100 years old and weeping cherry trees. The "Shimizu Park Cherry Blossom Festival" is held during the blooming season, featuring enchanting night illuminations.

Following the cherry blossoms, the park showcases one of the largest azalea displays in the Kanto region. In May, during the fresh green season, around 20,000 azalea plants of about 100 varieties bloom vibrantly, including "Kirishima Azalea," "Ooyama Azalea," "Kurume Azalea," and "Hirado Azalea." Visitors can also enjoy a tunnel of azaleas surrounding the field athletic area.

Additionally, the park is home to approximately 500 species of plants overall, while the Flower Fantasia boasts around 700 species, featuring plum, peony, wisteria, rose, nemophila, cosmos, and maple, which all beautify the park throughout the year. The wisteria trellis by the pond creates a scenic view with pale purple flower clusters reflected on the water's surface, soothing the hearts of visitors from spring to early summer. In autumn, about 800 maple, ginkgo, and zelkova trees turn vibrant colors, especially around Nio-mon Plaza, the boat pond, and near Jikozan Kinjoin, making these spots popular for autumn foliage viewing.

The park offers a variety of paid facilities that utilize the natural landscape and forests. Notably, its field athletic course is considered one of the largest in Japan, featuring three courses: a challenge course, an adventure course, and a water course, all comprising an impressive total of 100 points. The water-based athletic course includes high-difficulty points where participants must traverse rafts and ropes above water approximately 130 cm deep, providing a thrilling and rewarding experience. This appeal allows enjoyment for both children and adults, catering to different fitness levels and ages.

As a water-themed facility, "Aqua Adventure" combines large playground equipment, fountains, and mazes. The fountain maze, sudden water sprays, and large three-dimensional mazes are popular attractions during the summer, bustling with children. Safe playground equipment for young children is also available, ensuring a secure play environment.

Moreover, at the pony ranch, visitors can interact with ponies along with thoroughbreds, goats, and rabbits, fostering a connection with animals in nature. The trout fishing area regularly stocks more than 2,000 rainbow trout, making it easy for beginners to enjoy fishing. Caught fish can be grilled on-site or enjoyed as barbecue ingredients.

The park also provides extensive outdoor facilities, accommodating everything from day-use to overnight camping and barbecuing. Covered barbecue facilities, a DAY camp area for free-style enjoyment, bungalows, and an auto campsite are all available, allowing families and friends to fully enjoy nature.

In summary, Shimizu Park is a comprehensive leisure park where rich nature, seasonal flowers, and diverse experience facilities come together. From flower viewing to outdoor experiences and animal interactions, visitors can discover new attractions each time they return, making it a representative tourist spot of Noda City.