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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Moomin Valley Park is a theme park located within Metsä in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, and is an experiential facility that recreates the world of Tove Jansson's Moomin novel series. Opened in 2019, it was designed with the Nordic Finnish nature and culture in mind. Surrounded by forests and lakes, its greatest appeal is being able to experience the atmosphere of Moomin Valley while strolling around. With indoor and outdoor exhibits and attractions, character shows and greetings, and Nordic-style cafes and shops, it's fun for everyone, from children to adults.
Highlights
- Moomin HouseThe house where Moomins live has been faithfully recreated both inside and out. It is a popular photo spot, and sometimes the interior can be toured and there are performances held.
- Character Show & Greeting: Characters such as Moomin and Snufkin make regular appearances. Performance schedules and greeting times change depending on the day, so please check on-site or the official website.
- Walking route (nature experience): Take a leisurely stroll along the forest and lakeside promenade, immersing yourself in the world of Moomin Valley. The changing seasonal expressions of nature are also fascinating.
- Interactive exhibits and workshops:There may be play areas for children, programs such as craft experiences and storytelling.
- Scandinavian-style restaurants and shops: A shop selling Moomin-related goods and a Finnish-style cafe and restaurant. The limited edition original goods and food are very popular.
- Seasonal Events: There are seasonal decorations and special programs, such as spring flowers, summer night events, Halloween, and Christmas.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: The nearest station is Hanno Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line.
- Access from the station:
- From Hanno Station, take the Seibu Bus bound for Lake Miyazawa (Metsä) (approximately 15-20 minutes). It is a short walk from the bus stop.
- Direct buses (shuttle buses) may operate between the station and Metsa on weekends, holidays, and during peak seasons. Please check the operating status in advance.
- If you take a taxi, it takes about 10 to 15 minutes from Hanno Station.
- car: Accessible from the Kan-Etsu Expressway and the Ken-O Expressway. There is a parking lot at Metsa, but it may fill up during busy times, so we recommend arriving early.
- Points to note: Tickets are often limited in number and require a specific date and time, so it's best to check the official website for ticket purchase and entry rules (such as entry start time) and purchase your tickets in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Visiting Moomin Valley Park alone: Approximately 2-3 hours (including exhibits, shows, greetings, and the shop).
- If you include a stroll around Metsa Village (free area) and the lake area, it will take about half a day to a full day (4-6 hours).
- If you want to enjoy it at a leisurely pace, or if you want to participate in workshops, eat, and visit nearby spots, it's a good idea to plan a full-day itinerary.
Nearby spots
- metsä (Metsä Village) — A free area with a Scandinavian atmosphere, featuring cafes, shops and seasonal events.
- Lake Miyazawa — Enjoy lakeside strolls and views.
- Tove Jansson Akebono Children's Forest Park — A park named after Tove Jansson (the creator of Moomin), this is a spot where you can get a feel for the Moomin atmosphere.
- Tenranyama and Tatsunozuyama Hike — A popular hiking trail in the Hanno area. Nature lovers should definitely visit both.
- Cafes and local gourmet spots in downtown Hanno — There are many restaurants around the station.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Measures to prevent congestion: It gets very crowded on weekends, public holidays, long holidays, and during seasonal events. We recommend purchasing tickets in advance and specifying the date and time. Arriving before the park opens will give you plenty of time.
- Ticket and admission rules: Admission is often by designated date and time, and capacity is managed. Please check the official website for the latest information, such as cancellation policies and whether re-entry is permitted.
- Photography and Manners: When taking photos with characters, please follow the instructions of staff. Please be considerate and not disturb other visitors. There may also be restrictions on photography in some areas or performances.
- Pets: As a general rule, pets are not allowed (assistance dogs are handled separately). Please check the official information for details.
- Clothes/weather: As you will be walking outdoors in the forest for much of the time, comfortable shoes and clothing are recommended. Be careful in rainy weather as there may be muddy and slippery areas. Be sure to take precautions against insects in the summer and cold weather in the winter.
- Strollers and wheelchairs: There may be some areas within the park that are difficult to navigate due to steps or pathways. We recommend checking in advance whether strollers and wheelchairs are available and whether they can be rented.
Be sure to check the official website for detailed opening hours, ticket types, event schedules, and the latest access information. Have a great stay!
