Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Expo 2005 Aichi Commemorative Park (commonly known as Moricoro Park) is a commemorative park created on the site of the 2005 World Expo, Aichi. Located in Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture, the park features vast green spaces, walking trails, and exhibition facilities that continue the Expo's theme of "Coexistence with Nature." The park's nickname, "Moricoro," comes from the Expo's official mascots, Morizo and Kikkoro, and it is popular with a wide range of people, from families to those who come to observe nature, play sports, and hold events. With plenty to see, including flowers and trees that change with the seasons, a spacious lawn, a Japanese garden, and an exhibition facility that documents the Expo, it's a spot you can enjoy all day long.
Highlights
– Expo 2005 Aichi Memorial Museum: A facility where you can learn about the history and themes of the Expo through records of EXPO 2005, pavilion exhibits, and videos (some exhibits require a fee).
– Satsuki and Mei's House: An exhibition recreating Ghibli films (advance reservations or numbered tickets may be required for admission).
– Large Lawn Square: A large lawn area perfect for picnics, playing frisbee, or just relaxing. It can also be used as a special stage when holding events.
– Forest and walking paths: Satoyama-style plantings and paths are provided, allowing you to enjoy walking and bird watching.
– Japanese Garden (fee required): A Japanese garden where you can enjoy traditional scenery. A spot where you can experience the beauty of a Japanese garden with a pond and tea house.
- Flower beds and rose garden: Seasonal flowers are planted, and the flowers are in full bloom from spring to autumn.
- Experience and children's facilities: There are play equipment and nature experience programs, making it easy to bring children.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: The nearest station is the Expo Memorial Park Station on the Linimo (Tobu Kyuryo Line). It's a few minutes to 10 minutes' walk from the station to the park entrance. From Nagoya, the most common route is to take the Higashiyama Line subway to Fujigaoka Station and transfer to the Linimo at Fujigaoka.
- By car: Accessible from the Tomei Expressway, Nagoya Expressway, etc. Paid parking is available around the park (it tends to fill up during events due to limited parking).
- Bus: Direct buses from Nagoya may operate during events or on some routes. It is recommended to check the schedule and operation in advance.
*Please check the official website or the latest information on public transportation before visiting for detailed times, fares, number of parking spaces and fees.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Light stroll and rest on the grass: about 1 hour.
– Tour of the main attractions (Memorial Hall, Japanese Garden, Lawn Square, etc.): 2 to 4 hours.
- If you want to fully enjoy the zoo, including a tour of the exhibition facilities, Satsuki and Mei's house, and a leisurely picnic, it will take half a day to a full day (4-7 hours).
The length of stay will vary depending on the season and purpose of use (participating in an event, taking photos, bringing children).
Nearby spots
– Nagakute Battlefield (Historic Site): A place where historical sites remain from the battlefields of the Sengoku period. Perfect for strolling and sightseeing.
– Nagakute Onsen (open-air baths and day-trip hot spring facilities): Convenient for bathing and resting after playing in the park (check the facility for opening hours).
– Toyota Stadium (for events and soccer matches): Located within driving distance, it can also be combined with a match or concert.
- Nearby museums and shopping spots: There are several art museums, commercial facilities, and car-related museums within driving distance. It's easy to combine these with your sightseeing plans.
(We recommend checking the opening hours, holidays, and access of each facility in advance.)
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The park will be extremely crowded during Golden Week, summer vacation, weekends, event days, and spring flower season. Parking, admission, and tickets for Satsuki and Mei's House may sell out quickly, so we recommend leaving early or using public transportation.
- Facility usage rules: Some facilities (such as the Japanese Garden, Memorial Hall, and Satsuki and Mei's House) require a fee, a reservation system, or entry restrictions, so please check and make a reservation in advance. There are designated rules regarding eating and drinking, whether pets are allowed, smoking areas, etc., so please follow the posted notices and official guidance.
- Garbage and etiquette: To maintain the beauty of the park, you may be asked to separate your garbage and take it home with you. Please smoke only in designated areas and observe good etiquette.
- Pets: There are often rules such as keeping pets on a leash, and some facilities do not allow pets in. Please check the official rules.
– Weather and clothing: In summer, there is strong sunlight and high temperatures and humidity, and in winter, there is cold wind, so it is important to dress appropriately for the season, stay hydrated, and take measures to prevent heatstroke. In rainy weather, be careful of muddy and slippery areas.
- Food and drink, toilets: There are food and drink facilities, vending machines, and toilets in the park, but there may be lines when it is crowded, so it is best to arrive early, especially if you are traveling with children.
- Use of drones, etc.: Flying drones is often prohibited in and around parks, so please avoid flying them without permission.
Lastly, please note that the latest opening hours, admission procedures, event schedules, and transportation information will be updated regularly on the official website and local government information. Please be sure to check the latest information before your visit. Have a wonderful trip!
