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Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Koboyama Park is a low mountain satoyama park in Hadano City, Kanagawa Prefecture, beloved by locals for its easy hiking trails, observation deck, and seasonal flowers. It's a place where folklore surrounding Kobo Daishi (Kukai) has long remained, and historical vestiges such as Kobo no Shimizu and stone Buddha statues are scattered throughout the park. Located just before the Tanzawa Mountains, the park boasts stunning views of Mount Fuji, Sagami Bay, and Hadano city on clear days. The park's short distance and elevation change make it a great place for beginners, families, and those simply looking for a stroll.
Highlights
- Observation decks and viewing spots: There are several observation spots along the ridge of Mt. Kobo, and on clear days you can enjoy views of Mt. Fuji, the Tanzawa mountain range, and Hadano city.
- Hiking course: There are multiple trailheads from both Shibusawa Station and Hadano Station, and the ridge path connecting Mt. Kobo and Mt. Gongen is a popular and easy trail. You can easily trek round trip or around the mountain in 1-2 hours.
- Seasonal flowers: Cherry blossoms (Somei Yoshino etc.) in spring, fresh greenery in early summer, hydrangeas during the rainy season, and autumn leaves in autumn. You can enjoy the scenery of each season. The park is especially crowded with people who come to view the cherry blossoms during the cherry blossom season.
- Historical sites and legends: There are many historical points scattered around the area, including legends related to Kobo Daishi, stone Buddha statues, and springs (information boards available).
- Picnics and walks: There are grassy areas and benches where you can relax and have a snack.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Train: The nearest stations are Shibusawa Station or Hadano Station on the Odakyu Odawara Line. You can walk to the trailhead from either station. From Shibusawa Station, you can exit the north exit and walk up the hill, while from Hadano Station, you can take the north or east exit.
- Bus: Local buses sometimes operate from both stations, but some routes have limited service, so it's best to check the schedule in advance. During the tourist season, there may be special buses or shuttles.
- By car: There may be parking spaces near the park, but they are limited and can be crowded on weekends and during cherry blossom viewing season. We recommend using public transportation.
- Estimated time required (reference): It takes 20-40 minutes to walk from Shibusawa Station or Hadano Station to the trailhead, and another 20-40 minutes to reach the summit (ridge). It takes about 1-2 hours to walk along the ridge (round trip from Mt. Kobo to Mt. Gongen).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Easy walk (just climb up and enjoy the view): 1-2 hours
- Ridge walk from Mt. Kobo to Mt. Gongen (round trip): 2-3 hours
- Relaxed picnic + photography etc.: 3 hours or more
Nearby spots
- Tsurumaki Onsen: An easily accessible hot spring resort where you can soak in the hot springs after a hike.
- Hadano Togawa Park: A large park along the river where you can enjoy strolling and playing in the river.
- Tanzawa/Oyama area: If you want to do more serious mountain climbing, this is the access point to the Tanzawa Mountains and Oyama.
- Kobo no Satoyu (public bath): This public bath offers day-use bathing facilities, making it a convenient place to rest after a hike.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The trailhead, ridge trails, and observation spots are crowded during cherry blossom season, autumn foliage season, and weekends. If you plan to take photos or have a picnic, it's best to go early in the morning or on a weekday for less crowded times.
- Clothing and equipment: The path is relatively well maintained, but it is a mountain path, so please bring comfortable walking shoes (trekking shoes or sneakers), a drink, and a hat. Be careful of mud and slippery conditions on rainy days or if it has rained the day before.
- Insects and plants: In the summer, there is a risk of insects (gnats, ticks, etc.) appearing and entering the grass. We recommend wearing insect repellent, long sleeves, and long pants.
- Garbage and Manners: Always take your trash with you and avoid damaging the natural environment or historical sites. Fires and barbecues are prohibited in many areas.
- Pets: You may see people walking dogs, but please be considerate of other users (keeping them on a leash and cleaning up their droppings).
- Toilets and facilities: There are public toilets and rest areas, but they are limited in number. Please check in advance if you plan to stay for an extended period or are visiting with a large group.
- Weather: The view from the summit is weather dependent. If you want to see Mt. Fuji, choose a sunny day with few clouds.
Please use the above information as a reference and plan your visit accordingly, while enjoying the seasonal flowers and views. Please enjoy your walk while being mindful of safety and respecting the rules of the area and the natural environment.
