Showa Memorial Park (Tachikawa City, Tokyo)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Showa Memorial National Government Park, located in Tachikawa City, Tokyo (and part of it in Koganei City), is one of Tokyo's largest national parks. It was opened in 1983 after being redeveloped from the site of the former Tachikawa Airfield and US military base. The park is made up of a variety of zones, including a lawn plaza, flower beds, a pond, a Japanese garden, and a satoyama-style area, and its greatest appeal is being able to enjoy the changing plantings and landscape throughout the seasons. It is a versatile park suitable for family picnics, cycling, cherry blossom viewing, autumn leaf viewing, and relaxing in the spacious fields, and its easy access from the city center means it is bustling with visitors throughout the year.

Highlights

• Flower LandscapeThe flowers and colors of each season are beautiful, including cherry blossoms and tulips in spring, roses in early summer, cosmos and kochia in autumn (the scenery of Miharashi Hill changes from green to red), and rows of ginkgo trees.
• Miharashi Hill: A large grassy hill overlooking the park. Popular for its seasonal flowers and distant views.
• Japanese garden: Enjoy the changing atmosphere of the seasons in the tranquil Japanese garden area.
• Children's Forest (Children's Hill and Playground Area): It has play equipment for children and a water play area, making it popular with families.
• cycling: There are rental bicycles available to get around the large park, allowing you to efficiently tour the sights.
• Event illuminations: Seasonal events are held, including the Tulip Festival, Cosmos Festival, and autumn illuminations.
• Waterside and boats: You can enjoy strolls around the pond and fountain, and seasonal activities such as boating (details and availability vary depending on the season).

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• train:
  • JR Nishi-Tachikawa Station (JR Ome Line)...Very close to Nishi-Tachikawa Exit, about a 3-5 minute walk away (nearest station).
  • JR Tachikawa Station (JR Chuo Line, Nambu Line, etc.)...About a 15-20 minute walk towards the north exit of the park or Tachikawa exit, or take a local bus.
• bus: You can access the park from Tachikawa Station by local bus or community bus. Please check the bus information at the north exit of Tachikawa Station.
• Cars and parkingThere is a paid parking lot within the park (limited space available). It tends to fill up on weekends and during flowering season, so we recommend using public transportation.
• bicycleThe park is easily accessible by bicycle from around Tachikawa Station, and there are rental bicycles and bicycle parking areas within the park.
• *Please check the official website in advance for the latest timetables, operation status, parking availability, and entrance gate locations.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short walk: 1-2 hours (to cover part of the park)
• Visiting the classic sights: 3-4 hours (including cycling, photography, and breaks)
• Relaxed picnics and event participation: Half a day to a full day (all day if you want to take it easy)

Nearby spots

• Shopping and dining areas around Tachikawa Station (full of shopping malls, cafes, and restaurants)
• Parks and green spaces around the National Showa Memorial Park (there are also many green spaces nearby that are suitable for strolling)
• Art museums, museums, and civic cultural facilities in Tachikawa City (which sometimes host exhibitions and events)
• Tourist spots in the Tama area (Tachikawa is a starting point for car access to Tama Zoological Park and suburban tourist spots)

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

• congestion: The area is extremely crowded during the cherry blossom and tulip season in spring, the autumn foliage and kochia season, Golden Week, and weekends. We recommend arriving early and using public transportation.
• Admission fees and opening hours: There is an admission fee, and opening hours, closing days, and fees vary depending on the season and events. Please check the official website for the latest information before visiting.
• Barbecue and fire：The use of fire is prohibited within the park as a general rule. If you wish to have a barbecue or similar activity, please check in advance as designated areas and permission may be required.
• Pets: There are areas where pets such as dogs are restricted from entering and there are rules (such as keeping them on a leash and cleaning up after them). Please check the official pet regulations for details.
• Manners：Please be sure to take your trash home or dispose of it in the designated area, and be considerate of other visitors. Entering or picking flowers or plants is prohibited.
• Clothes/preparation：There will be plenty of walking and cycling within the large park, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothing that is easy to move in. Be sure to bring sun protection and cold weather gear depending on the season.
• Weather and event information: In the event of typhoons, heavy rain, or strong winds, the park may close or some facilities may be suspended. Please check official announcements for information on whether events will be held or not, as well as other special information.

*The above is a general guide. For detailed information on admission fees, opening hours, event schedules, and the latest access information, please check the official website of Showa Memorial National Government Park or the city's information page.