Yatoyama National Park in Zama

About two weeks ago, I wanted to get out despite the rainy weather and enjoy some fresh air. While browsing through Google Maps©, I noticed a large park several stops away by train. I decided to head there for the afternoon.

Yatoyama Park is a national park located approximately 15 minutes walk from Zama station, on the Odakyu line. The park is free and most famous for bird-watching. You will likely find many older Japanese men with long telephoto lenses, seeking out various winged species. In addition to the bird-watching platforms, there are also rice fields, ponds, small rivers and numerous hiking trails.

Photos:
Park entrance, ducks, maps and an explanation sheet on how rice is grown & harvested.

The park was established in 1982 and covers a wide area. Completing all the trails will take approximately 2 ~ 3 hours. The numerous trails are especially popular with joggers, so bring your running shoes! 

Food and drink is welcome and there are some limited spots to sit. I packed a picnic lunch and chose to sit near the frog pond, where I enjoyed reading from my Kindle©. While reading, I noticed a guest slither over -- a small lizard. 

Photos:

Barrier-free trail, large pond, a gazebo, my small lizard companion.

The park boasts a barrier-free trail, which circles the outer rim of the park boundary. It's perfect for mothers with baby strollers, or those in wheelchairs. While there is no English signage, there are lots of sign posts in Japanese pointing the way to the various trails inside. 

Photos:

More trails, trail sign, charcoal house & explanation sheet

Trails are a mix of flat, to both up and down. There is also a narrow trail through some thick woods; it's the perfect respite on a hot day! At the top of one trail, I found a small house, which is used to make charcoal. A sign nearby explained the process in Japanese. 

School children from the area come here to plant rice, study about plants and vegetation, as well as learn how to make charcoal. For adults, it's a great place to walk about enjoying the greenery, to relax or jog along the numerous trails. 

For those living and working in Tokyo, this park is a nice day trip out of the city. 

Enjoy hiking! 

Information:

Yatoyama Park is located in Zama, Kanagawa. 

Website HERE.

Access: 

Odakyu train from Shinjuku to Odawara. Get off at Zama. Take the West Gate. Walk north along the tracks until you reach the park (approximately 15 mins.)

Google MAP

Entrance Fee: 

Free! 

Tips:

Bring bug spray. 

Best for runners. 

If bird watching is your thing, bring binoculars. There are several bird watching platforms available.

For kids: several large fields for playing soccer, ball games, or kite flying. 

Outside food & drink permitted.

Pick up fresh bread or snacks at the bread shop or at Odakyu OX, both near the station's West Gate.