Kouno park

In the cozy Japanese city of Saga lies a picturesque ensemble known as Kono Park. Established over a century and a half ago, it began its history as a grand country residence for the feudal lord Nabeshima Naomasa. Today, it is one of the most beloved spots for walks and relaxation in Japan.

Kōno Park. Иллюстрация. Источник: Kupi.com AI

This public park harmoniously blends the spirit of old Japan with modern entertainment. Here, you can find quiet corners for nature contemplation as well as lively zones for family leisure. One of the park's main gems is the monument dedicated to Eto Shinpei, a famous Meiji era reformer whose name is closely tied to the region's history.

The park is especially beautiful during the spring season when hundreds of trees turn soft pink. It is a renowned spot for hanami—the tradition of cherry blossom viewing—attracting many aesthetes and photographers. A pleasant bonus for travelers is the park's hospitality: unlike many other gardens in Japan, pets are allowed here.

For your convenience, we have gathered up-to-date contact information to help you quickly find your way to this recreation spot. This information will be useful when planning your city itinerary.

Official park details include the address, contact phone number, and a link to the city portal for further information.

A visit to the park offers a rare chance to experience what the Japanese call a "healing place." You can start your morning with a meditative stroll along well-kept paths, admiring the reflection of trees in the water, or enjoy a picnic on one of the spacious green lawns under the shade of century-old canopies.

For families with children, the main attraction is the compact amusement park. Here, little ones can enjoy miniature slides and carousels, many of which are designed for children under three. Right nearby is a unique traffic park, where young visitors can learn the rules of cycling and driving special cars in a playful way.

History buffs should definitely visit the majestic statue of Eto Shinpei to pay tribute to the great reformer, and then stop by the authentic tea house. This wooden building transports guests back to the samurai era, allowing them to experience the aristocratic atmosphere of the old Saga Domain over a cup of traditional tea.

Getting to this scenic spot in Saga is easy thanks to its central location. If you prefer walking, the route from the JR Saga railway station takes about 20–30 minutes, allowing you to enjoy the local architecture along the way.

For those who value their time, the Saga City Bus is an excellent choice. You will need the routes heading to the Kamizono or Kōno Park stops; the ride from the station takes no more than 10–15 minutes. Alternatively, you can always use a taxi—a ride from the central station costs approximately 1,000 yen and takes about 5–10 minutes.

For travelers by car, parking is available on-site or in the immediate vicinity. The convenient location makes it easy to combine a visit here with other iconic sites in the city.

The history of this place began about 170 years ago, in the mid-19th century. Initially, the territory was established as a bessō—a private country residence for Nabeshima Naomasa, the influential daimyo who ruled the Saga Domain during the Edo period.

During Japan's transition to the Meiji period, the park witnessed significant political changes. This is commemorated by the bronze statue of Eto Shinpei—a prominent statesman who worked on the country's modernization alongside the legendary Saigo Takamori. The monument highlights the region's significant contribution to the formation of modern Japan.

Over time, the private residence transformed into a public space while retaining the charm of an ancient Japanese garden. Today, elements of traditional architecture, such as the elegant tea pavilion, harmoniously coexist with modern play areas, serving as a reminder of the continuity between generations.

To leisurely stroll through the alleys and enjoy the atmosphere of the Japanese garden, 1–2 hours is sufficient for most visitors. This is enough time to see the historical monuments and relax by the water.

If you are planning a trip with children, it's worth setting aside an additional hour to visit the amusement park and playgrounds. During the cherry blossom season, many tourists spend up to 3 hours here, enjoying traditional picnics on the grass.

The main park area is open 24/7 for free public access. This allows guests to enjoy walks in both the morning sunlight and the evening twilight.

However, please note that the children's amusement park and the tea pavilion have their own operating schedules, which may vary depending on the season and weather conditions. It is recommended to check the current opening hours for these zones on the city's official website before your visit.

Exploring the park's surroundings will allow you to dive deeper into the city's atmosphere and see Saga from different perspectives—from historical ruins to cozy artists' residences.

Many interesting locations are within walking distance or just a few minutes' drive away, making it very convenient to plan your stroll.