Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park (緑ヶ丘公園) is a vast hilltop park overlooking the city. It is located at 1-3 Shimizucho, Takaoka, Tomakomai City in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.
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| Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park |
Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park details
Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park is a scenic and expansive park located just 2 km from the city center. Since its opening to the public on September 14, 1960, it has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a variety of activities and attractions for people of all ages.
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| Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park - Tomakomai City, Hokkaido Prefecture |
Covering a land area of 87 hectares, Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park provides a serene and peaceful environment perfect for relaxation and recreation. Many citizens visit the park for hiking and picnicking, taking advantage of the beautiful surroundings and fresh air. One of the main attractions in the park is Kintaro Pond, a rest stop for migratory birds, where visitors can observe and enjoy the natural habitat of these magnificent creatures. Additionally, the park offers boat rides on the pond, allowing visitors to appreciate the beauty from a different perspective.
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| The road up to Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park from Route 276 |
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| Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park guide map |
Some things to see in Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park
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| The Symbol Tree |
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| Loyalty Monument (忠魂碑) |
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| The Hill Top Park |
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| Midorigaoka Observation Deck |
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| Can you spot the hidden creatures? |
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| The walkway down to the parking of Tomakomai City Hospital |
For those looking to engage in more active pursuits, Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park has a range of facilities to cater to sports enthusiasts. From tennis courts and a baseball field to an athletic field and a soccer field, visitors have ample options to engage in their favorite activities. The park is also home to a youth baseball field and a park golf course, where various tournaments are regularly held, providing a platform for sports lovers to showcase their skills and compete.
Midorigaoka Observation Deck
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| The view of Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park from the Observation Deck |
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| Tomakomai City Hospital as seen from the Observation Deck |
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| The souvenir shop inside the Midorigaoka Observation Deck |
One of the highlights of Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park is the Midorigaoka Observation Deck, which was established in 1998 to commemorate the 50th anniversary of Tomakomai's establishment as a city. The observation deck stands at an impressive height of 29.6m, offering a spectacular panoramic view of Tomakomai and its surroundings. Situated on a small hill in the northern part of the city, visitors can gaze upon not only the cityscape but also the Pacific Ocean, Mt. Tarumae, and the majestic mountains surrounding Lake Shikotsu. On the ground floor of the observatory, visitors can unwind and relish in the view while enjoying refreshments at the coffee shop or browsing for souvenirs at the gift shop.
Observation Deck Plaza
Adjacent to the observation deck is the Observation Deck Plaza, a spacious area equipped with various play equipment for children. Families can spend quality time together, allowing their little ones to engage in activities while surrounded by nature. Within the plaza, visitors will also notice the Stone Monument, a significant symbol protected by a pair of komainu, traditional Japanese lion-dog statues. This monument adds a cultural touch to the park and serves as a reminder of the rich history and heritage of Tomakomai.
Team Nicerio visits Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park
My family and I first visited Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park last October 9, 2022, during the second day of our “October 8-10” Road Trip. It was my 342nd day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. During our visit, we didn’t miss the opportunity to head up the Midorigaoka Observation Deck to see the panoramic view of the city. Sadly, since we were pressed for time, we weren’t able to explore the other parts of the park. Instead, we just stayed in the Observation Deck Plaza. Regardless, it was a memorable experience for us. We were even able to see several wild Ezo deer in the area.
Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park Fees
It’s FREE to stroll, hike, play in the playground, and have a picnic at Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park. It’s also FREE to park in the parking area.
It’s also FREE to head up the Midorigaoka Observation Deck. However, it is recommended that you bring cash in case you want to buy souvenirs or have a cup of coffee.
Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park Operating Hours
Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park is open 24/7.
The Midorigaoka Observation Deck is open from:
9 AM – 9 PM (April 20 to October 31)
10 AM – 6 PM(November 1 to April 19)
Why visit Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park?
Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park is a multifaceted destination that caters to a diverse range of interests. With its serene atmosphere, stunning natural beauty, and an array of recreational facilities, it is a haven for relaxation, exploration, and outdoor activities. Whether you are seeking tranquility, sports entertainment, or an exceptional viewpoint, this park is a must-visit for anyone in Tomakomai.
Getting to Tomakomai Midorigaoka Park
[On foot] Located a brisk 30-minute walk from the north exit of Tomakomai Station.
[By Car] Just a 10-minute drive from Tomakomai Station or approximately 20 minutes from Hokkaido Expressway Tomakomai Nishi IC/Tomakomai Higashi IC.
[Train Access] Accessible via JR Muroran Main Line (Oshamanbe/Muroran - Tomakomai)/JR Tomakomai. From the north exit of the station, take Donan Bus No. 03 (Tetsuhoku Kitaguchi Line) and alight at "Sogo Sports Park" with a mere 10-minute walk ahead.
For an alternative option, take Donan Bus No. 20 (Ekimae City Hospital Line) and disembark at either "Sogo Sports Park" or "City Hospital," both within a 10-minute walking distance.
*Should you wish to visit the observation deck, alight at "City Hospital." If Kintaro's Pond is your destination, opt for the "Sogo Sports Park" stop.
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