Kamui no Mori Park

Imagine a space where Hokkaido's wild nature meets modern outdoor design—this is Kamui no Mori Park. Located on the outskirts of Asahikawa, this complex is a unique example of how Japan preserves its forests by transforming them into exciting adventure playgrounds.

Kamui no Mori Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The park's name, which translates as “Forest of the Gods,” refers to the culture of the indigenous Ainu people. The main attraction of the park is its massive indoor wooden play area. Its central feature is a large-scale net structure shaped like a giant egg, where children can climb and jump in complete safety, regardless of the northern weather's whims.

The park serves as an ideal starting point for exploring the mountain region and Daisetsuzan National Park. It is equally popular among locals who value the peace and fresh air, and tourists looking for quality family leisure surrounded by Hokkaido’s majestic landscapes.

For more details about your visit or the terms of using the camping area, you can contact the park administration directly. Information is available on the management organization's official website.

The main draw for visitors at Kamui no Mori Park is its wooden adventure pavilion. It features a unique net structure where you can climb and explore different levels of the space. Children are absolutely delighted by it, and it allows adults to return to childhood for a moment as they test their agility inside the giant “mesh egg.”

For those seeking a connection with nature, the park offers a network of scenic hiking and walking trails. In summer, you can enjoy a picnic on the grass or use the specially equipped barbecue areas. In winter, the area transforms into a white field for play, where you can build snow forts or simply enjoy the silence of the sleeping forest.

Special attention should be paid to the Kamuikyanpu camping zone. This is a wonderful opportunity to spend a night under the stars near the Kamikawa River. The park is perfect for those who want to combine active play with relaxed contemplation of the mountain landscape while breathing in the pure air of the “Forest of the Gods.”

Reaching this natural area from central Asahikawa is simple. A taxi or bus ride from the main station takes about 20–30 minutes. Asahikawa is a major transport hub for Hokkaido, making it easy to reach by JR limited express train from Sapporo in just an hour and a half.

If you prefer to travel by rental car, follow Route 39 or 40. From Asahikawa Airport, the journey is about 15–20 kilometers, which takes approximately 25 minutes depending on traffic. Convenient parking is provided for visitors arriving by car, including those planning to stay at the campsite.

During the summer, cycling is a popular option. The route from the city to the park passes through scenic landscapes, allowing you to enjoy the fresh mountain air before you even begin your activities. Navigator coordinates: 142.3183206, 43.7459658.

The history of Kamui no Mori Park is deeply rooted in the traditions of Hokkaido's indigenous people and the development of Asahikawa. The park's name comes from the Ainu language, where “Kamui” translates to “spirit” or “deity,” and “Mori” means “forest.” As such, this place has been revered since ancient times as the “Forest of the Gods,” a sacred space where nature and the spiritual world exist in harmony.

The region itself began to be actively developed during the Meiji era, starting around 1890. It was home to Tondenhei settlements—soldier-farmers who worked to develop Japan's northern lands. The Kamikawa River basin has always been a strategically important area, driving the prosperity of trade and agriculture in this part of the island.

In its modern form, the park was created as part of a large-scale initiative to promote ecotourism and provide recreation zones for Hokkaido residents. The project successfully combined the preservation of the pristine forest landscape with unique wooden architecture, making it a significant site not only for recreation but also for exploring the region's cultural identity.

For a standard visit to the park and some active time in the play area, most visitors need between 2 and 4 hours. This is plenty of time for children to explore the famous egg-shaped net structure, while adults take a stroll along the nearby forest trails to enjoy the natural scenery.

If you plan to have a family barbecue or decide to stay at the Kamuikyanpu campsite, you should set aside a full day for your visit. The atmosphere of the “Forest of the Gods” encourages slow-paced relaxation, and the opportunity to spend a night under the stars makes it a popular choice for weekend mini-vacations.

Kamui no Mori Park is open to guests daily. The official operating hours for the main complex and play areas are from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Monday through Sunday. This consistent schedule makes it easy to include a visit to the “Forest of the Gods” in any Hokkaido travel itinerary.

Please keep in mind that the operation of specific facilities, such as the camping area or outdoor barbecue pits, may depend on weather conditions and the current season. For the most up-to-date information regarding special events or seasonal changes, it is recommended to check the park's official website in advance.

Exploring the surroundings of Kamui no Mori Park allows tourists to discover Hokkaido's historical and cultural heritage. Its proximity to the Daisetsuzan mountains and local river systems makes this area ideal for those who want to experience more than just standard tourist routes.

Below are several sites within a few kilometers that are worth adding to your itinerary: