Midorigaoka Park

Imagine a vast green oasis stretching across the heart of the Tokachi Plain. Midorigaoka Park is the crown jewel of Obihiro, a city on the picturesque island of Hokkaido in Japan. This sprawling urban park is renowned for its century-old trees and an incredibly serene atmosphere that draws in locals and travelers alike.

Midorigaoka Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

The park's standout feature is the famous 400-meter bench, recognized as one of the longest in the world. It stretches along manicured lawns, offering everyone a cozy spot to relax and take in the natural beauty. More than just a place for a stroll, the park is a true cultural hub, where a zoo, an art museum, and memorial halls harmoniously coexist.

Whether for a family weekend or a solitary walk, Midorigaoka Park offers entertainment for every taste. You might spot golf enthusiasts on the dedicated course or photographers hunting for rare shots throughout the changing seasons. It is a place where Japan’s natural splendor meets the comfort of modern urban infrastructure.

To confirm details before your visit or to contact the administration, you can use the official communication channels. Please note that the primary information on the website is in Japanese.

At Midorigaoka Park, everyone will find something to enjoy. Start your exploration with a walk along the endless green paths and be sure to sit on the legendary 400-meter bench—it’s the perfect place to slow down and watch the city go by. During the warmer months, the spacious lawns are popular for picnics where you can enjoy the fresh Hokkaido air.

Of particular interest to families with children is the Obihiro Zoo, located within the park. Here, you can see curious iguanas and adorable tanuki (Japanese raccoon dogs). If you find yourself here towards evening, you might catch the tanuki at their most active—watching them play in the fallen leaves is a delight. Admission is free for elementary school students, while an adult ticket costs around 420 yen.

Art lovers should visit the local art museum. Its collection includes works from the Barbizon school and pieces by Eastern Hokkaido artists inspired by rural life. If your trip coincides with the cherry blossom season in spring or the fiery autumn foliage, the park turns into a living backdrop for unforgettable photos. For active tourists, there is also a park golf course where you can practice surrounded by ancient trees.

Midorigaoka Park is located at: 2 Midorigaoka, Obihiro, Hokkaido 080-0846, Japan. The city is situated on the Tokachi Plain, making it an important transport hub between Furano and Akan-Mashu National Park.

The most convenient way to reach the park is by train. You need to travel to Obihiro Station (via the JR Nemuro Main Line). From the station, you can reach the park on foot or by taxi in just 10–15 minutes. Regular city buses also run from the station, stopping in the immediate vicinity of the park's main entrances.

If you are arriving by plane, Obihiro Airport is approximately 10 kilometers from the city center. From there, you can reach the park by a special shuttle bus or taxi. For those who prefer to travel by car, the most convenient route is via the Hokkaido Expressway—parking spaces are available on the park grounds.

The park is an integral part of the history of Obihiro, the administrative center of the Tokachi region. This area is traditionally famous for its agriculture and a unique horse-breeding culture, which has left its mark on the development of urban public spaces. Obihiro is often described as a city "built on horsepower," and the park serves as a vital link between the urban environment and Hokkaido's wilderness.

The art museum located within the park houses a collection closely tied to the region's identity. It features works reflecting rural landscapes and the lives of ordinary laborers, including pieces from the famous 19th-century French Barbizon school. This highlights the local commitment to preserving the spirit of Tokachi through art.

Interestingly, the nature of the park itself is a historical monument. The Japanese white birch—the city's official tree—grows here in abundance, and in spring, you can find the Kamchatka lily, the floral symbol of Obihiro. The development of the park and its facilities, such as the zoo, testifies to a long-standing tradition of family recreation that has been maintained in the city for many decades.

For a leisurely stroll through the shaded alleys, taking photos on the famous long bench, and enjoying the atmosphere, most visitors will need about 1–2 hours. This is enough time to get acquainted with the central part of the park.

If you plan to visit the Obihiro Zoo, the Art Museum, or have a full picnic on the grass, you should budget from 4 hours to half a day. For active travelers wishing to play park golf, a stay in the park can stretch across the entire day, especially during the warmer months.

Midorigaoka Park itself is open to visitors 24 hours a day, seven days a week—from Monday to Sunday. This makes it an excellent spot for both early morning jogs and evening strolls under the stars.

However, keep in mind that individual facilities within the park have their own schedules. For example, the zoo typically welcomes guests from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and the museum and sports grounds may have seasonal breaks or closed days. It is recommended to check the hours for specific attractions before your visit.

The area surrounding Midorigaoka Park is rich in interesting locations that offer a deeper dive into the history and culture of the Tokachi region. A walk beyond the main park grounds will reveal historic architectural landmarks and memorial sites connected to Hokkaido's industrial past.

Exploring these sites will help build a more complete picture of Obihiro's development—from its early settlements and prison facilities to its transformation into a major cultural center.