Shimizu Park (Noda City, Chiba Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Shimizu Park (Noda City, Chiba Prefecture) is a comprehensive park rich in nature, beloved by locals for its seasonal flowers and trees, waterfront scenery, and outdoor facilities. Its field athletics are particularly famous, with a large athletic course that can be enjoyed by children and adults alike. The park also features walking paths, a pond, a garden-like area, and a camping and barbecue area, making it suitable for leisure, sports, and nature observation. With plenty of seasonal attractions, including cherry blossoms and azaleas in spring, early summer flowers, and autumn foliage, the park is bustling with families on weekends and during the tourist season.

Highlights

• Field athletics (fee required): There are long and comprehensive courses that will test your physical strength and sense of balance. There are also easy courses for children.
• Camping and barbecue area (reservations required, fees apply): Whether or not facilities offer empty-handed plans or equipment rentals varies, so it is recommended to check in advance.
• Seasonal flowers and trees: The cherry blossoms, azaleas, and plum blossoms in spring are beautiful, making the park especially popular during the cherry blossom season. You can enjoy the seasonal changes while strolling around.
• Waterside walks and ponds: You can take a leisurely stroll along the quiet waterside or observe wild birds.
• Children's playground equipment and play areasThere is a plaza that can be used for picnics and play areas.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Railway: Get off at Shimizu Park Station on the Tobu Urban Park Line (formerly the Tobu Noda Line) and walk for about 5-10 minutes. The path from the station to the park entrance is flat and easy to follow.
• car: Accessible from the Joban Expressway and national highways. There is a paid parking lot in the park, but please note that it may be full during busy times.
• Buses and other: Local buses and taxis are also available from major stations. If you have a large group or a lot of luggage, it is more convenient to use a car or taxi.
• remarksAccess, parking, and facility usage and fees may change depending on the season or events, so we recommend checking the official website for the latest information before visiting.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Light stroll/cherry blossom viewing: 1-2 hours
• Including field athletics (1 course): 2 to 4 hours
• Day trips including camping and barbecues: half a day to a full day (including preparation and cleanup)
• If camping overnight: 1 night or more

Nearby spots

• Kikkoman Soy Sauce Museum (Noda City): A facility where you can learn about the history and manufacturing process of soy sauce. Recommended for tours and souvenir hunting.
• Sekiyado Castle (Sekiyado Castle Museum): A spot where you can enjoy history and riverside scenery. It is within driving distance.
• Riverbanks and cycling roads around the Tone River: A base for nature walks and cycling.
• City facilities such as Noda City Museum: Learn about the history and culture of the region.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• congestion: The park is especially crowded during the cherry blossom season in spring, Golden Week, and summer weekends. Parking lots and paid facilities may fill up early.
• Check in advance for paid facilities: Field athletics, campsites, and barbecue areas often require a usage fee or reservation, so please check the official website or contact us in advance to make a reservation.
• What to wear and what to bringWhen using the athletic facilities, wear comfortable clothing and non-slip shoes. In summer, take measures against heat and insects (hat, drinking water, insect repellent), and in winter, take measures against the cold.
• Safety and Manners: Please follow the rules when using playground equipment and athletic facilities, and always keep an eye on children. Please take your trash home or dispose of it in designated areas, and only use fires in designated areas.
• Weather and operation status: Some areas may be closed during bad weather or for facility inspections. In particular, during rainy weather, athletic facilities and waterfront areas can be slippery and dangerous.
• Pets: There may be restrictions and rules regarding pets within the park. Please observe proper etiquette, such as keeping pets on leashes and cleaning up their waste.

Before you visit, be sure to check the official Shimizu Park website or the park management office for the latest information on opening hours, prices, and reservations. We hope you have a pleasant stay.