Complete Guide to Kanagawa Prefectural Nanasawa Forest Park | Charm and Ways to Enjoy the Prefecture’s Largest-Class Forest Park
Kanagawa Prefectural Nanasawa Forest Park, located in Atsugi City, Kanagawa Prefecture, is a large-scale urban park covering approximately 65 hectares on the eastern foothills of the Tanzawa Mountains. It has been selected for both “100 Select Urban Parks in Japan” and “100 Select Flower Destinations,” and offers diverse activities such as forest bathing, hiking, barbecue, and pottery experiences in a rich natural environment. This article provides a detailed guide to the park’s appeal, specific ways to enjoy it, and access information.
Nanasawa Forest Park: A 65-Hectare Urban Park
Kanagawa Prefectural Nanasawa Forest Park is located on the eastern foothills of the Tanzawa Mountains, also called the roof of Kanagawa Prefecture. With an area of 64.6 hectares (equivalent to approximately 24 Yokohama Stadiums), it is one of the prefecture’s largest urban parks. The park, which takes advantage of satoyama (rural mountain) nature as it is, is characterized by undulating terrain and maintains a rich forest environment.
Selected as One of Japan’s 100 Select Urban Parks
Nanasawa Forest Park was chosen as one of Japan’s 100 Select Urban Parks, and its rich natural environment and value as a park have been highly evaluated. Additionally, the Rhododendron Garden has been selected as one of the 100 Select Flower Destinations, and many visitors come during spring.
Kanagawa’s First Forest Therapy Base
It was certified as the first forest therapy base in Kanagawa Prefecture, allowing visitors to experience the scientifically proven healing effects of forests. Walking trails such as “Ridge Walking Path,” which has been developed as a forest therapy road, offer opportunities for physical and mental refreshment.
Main Spots and Attractions in Nanasawa Forest Park
Forest Arch Bridge
“Mori no Kakehashi” (Forest Arch Bridge), the park’s symbol, is a massive arched bridge measuring 75.5 meters in length and 18 meters in height. From atop the bridge, you can overlook the Nanasawa Valley and the Tanzawa Mountains, making it an excellent photo spot. As you cross the bridge, you can leisurely enjoy the rich forest landscape spread below.
Oyama Plaza and Rhododendron Garden
Oyama Plaza, which overlooks Mount Oyama and Tanzawa, is a spacious lawn plaza ideal for picnicking and leisure activities. Dozens of varieties of Western rhododendrons are planted in the adjacent Rhododendron Garden, displaying colorful blooms from mid-April through mid-May. This period offers the perfect opportunity to experience the scenic beauty that earned selection as one of Japan’s 100 Select Flower Destinations.
Deai Plaza and Forest Folk Tale Hall
Located in the central part of the park, Deai Plaza is a relaxing gathering space for visitors. Nearby is the “Forest Folk Tale Hall,” where you can learn about local history and folk tales. Regular environmental education and nature observation programs are held here, providing learning opportunities for both children and adults.
Sunshading Pavilion: A Fall Foliage Destination
The area around Sunshading Pavilion is known as a prime autumn foliage viewing spot. During autumn, Japanese maples and other maples color the park in vivid reds and yellows, captivating all visitors. As you walk the scenic paths, you can feel the seasonal changes in nature.
Outdoor Stage and Forest Atelier
The Outdoor Stage hosts various events, including alphorn performances. The open space surrounded by forest provides a unique experience where nature and music merge.
The “Forest Atelier” is a facility where visitors can enjoy creative experiences such as pottery and woodcraft. Under the guidance of professional instructors, even beginners can safely create pottery and craft works. Creative activities in nature provide a valuable time to refresh the mind.
Ways to Enjoy Nanasawa Forest Park
Hiking and Walking
The park features multiple walking trails accommodating different fitness levels and purposes. “Ridge Walking Path” is certified as a forest therapy road where you can enjoy forest bathing while walking. On clear days, this course offers stunning viewpoints from which you can see Kamakura, Enoshima, and even the distant high-rise buildings of Shinjuku.
Utilizing the “Kanto Fureai Road” (Kanto Friendship Trail) that passes through the park allows you to extend your hike toward Iiyama Hakusan or Hyuga Yakushi. The varied terrain is perfect for health-conscious walking, with various health programs available.
Enjoying Barbecue
The barbecue area at Nanasawa Forest Park is available from March to November. Plans are available for visitors without their own equipment, allowing families and friends to easily enjoy outdoor cooking. Barbecuing in an open environment surrounded by forest offers an exceptional experience.
Advance reservations may be required, so it is recommended to confirm with the management office before visiting.
Forest Therapy for Mind and Body Refreshment
As Kanagawa’s first certified forest therapy base, Nanasawa Forest Park offers scientifically-based forest bathing programs. Forest therapy is a health promotion activity utilizing the relaxation effects of forest environments, with expected benefits including stress reduction and improved immune function.
Specialized guided programs are regularly held, allowing for deeper forest therapy experiences. Using all five senses to feel the forest, you can spend valuable healing time away from daily hustle and bustle.
Pottery and Craft Experiences
The Forest Atelier offers creative experiences including pottery and woodcraft. Creating works with natural materials is ideal for children’s emotional development. Completed works can be taken home as souvenirs of your visit.
Some experience programs require advance reservations, so inquiries are recommended if interested.
Nature Observation and Environmental Learning
The park’s rich flora and fauna make it an ideal environment for nature observation, including birdwatching and insect observation. The Forest Folk Tale Hall provides learning opportunities about local nature and history, and environmental education programs are regularly held.
For children, this offers a valuable opportunity to learn while experiencing living nature.
Seasonal Atmosphere and Year-Round Enjoyment
Spring (March–May)
Spring at Nanasawa Forest Park is a season of vibrant new growth full of life. From mid-April through mid-May, dozens of varieties of rhododendrons in the Rhododendron Garden bloom in a rainbow of colors. Pink, white, and purple flowers create a beautiful landscape worthy of the “100 Select Flower Destinations” designation.
The mild climate makes this season ideal for hiking and picnicking.
Summer (June–August)
The forest park in summer becomes a cool space enveloped in deep green. With temperatures lower than urban areas, forest shade acts like a natural air conditioner. The barbecue area is most crowded during this season, with families and groups of friends enjoying outdoor cooking.
While the park is equipped with mosquito coils, bringing insect repellent spray is recommended for peace of mind.
Autumn (September–November)
Autumn is the season of beautiful fall foliage. Throughout the park, including around Sunshading Pavilion, Japanese maples and other maples color brilliantly, captivating visitors. Fall foliage peaks from mid- to late November, when many hikers and photography enthusiasts visit.
The cool weather is perfect for walking and hiking, and it’s an excellent season for forest therapy.
Winter (December–February)
Winter at the forest park offers a serene atmosphere and peaceful walks. Bare trees reveal distant vistas normally hidden by leaves, offering unique winter scenery. Clear air enhances the views from Ridge Walking Path.
With proper cold-weather preparation, you can enjoy the luxury of having a quiet forest to yourself.
Nanasawa Forest Park Map and How to Navigate the Grounds
Given the park’s vast area, it’s recommended to check the park map in advance. The official website offers detailed maps for download.
Recommended Routes
Basic Course for First-Time Visitors (Approximately 2–3 hours)
- From parking lot/bus stop to Deai Plaza
- Cross Forest Arch Bridge and take commemorative photos
- Rest and picnic at Oyama Plaza (spring: enjoy rhododendrons)
- Forest bathe on Ridge Walking Path
- Creative experience at Forest Atelier (optional)
- Learn at Forest Folk Tale Hall
- Lunch at barbecue area (for reservations)
Walking Course for Health-Conscious Visitors (Approximately 3–4 hours)
Centering on Ridge Walking Path, a certified forest therapy road, walk courses with varied elevation for effective aerobic exercise. Take breaks at viewpoints to enjoy scenery at a comfortable pace.
Relaxed Family Course (Half day–full day)
Using Oyama Plaza as a base, combine kid-friendly activities such as barbecuing, nature observation, and creative experiences at the atelier. The plaza offers space for free play.
Access Information and Parking
By Train and Bus
From Odakyu Line “Honatsuki Station”
From the north exit of Honatsuki Station, board a Kanagawa Chuo Bus.
- Bound for “Nanasawa”
- Bound for “Nanasawa Onsen”
- Bound for “Hirosawaji Onsen”
Ride any of these buses and get off at “Nanasawa Onsen-guchi” bus stop. From there, it’s approximately 15 minutes on foot to the park entrance. Bus travel time is approximately 30 minutes.
By Car
From the Tomei Expressway
- Approximately 20 minutes from Atsugi IC
- Approximately 25 minutes from Kensodo “Sagamihara Aikawa IC”
Satellite Navigation Settings
- Address: 901-1 Nanasawa, Atsugi City, Kanagawa 243-0121
- Phone: 046-247-9870 (Management Office)
Parking Information
The park has multiple parking areas with a total capacity of approximately 300 vehicles.
- Operating Hours: 8:30–17:00 (varies seasonally)
- Parking Fee: ¥500 per day for regular vehicles
- Note: Early arrival is recommended as weekends, holidays, and peak seasons can be crowded
Facility Information and Usage Guide
Basic Information
- Location: 901-1 Nanasawa, Atsugi City, Kanagawa 243-0121
- Management Office Phone: 046-247-9870
- Opening Hours: Open year-round (some facilities have restricted hours)
- Closed Days: None (some facilities may have closures)
- Admission: Free
Operating Hours by Facility
- Forest Atelier: 9:00–16:00 (experience registration until 15:00)
- Barbecue Area: March–November (reservation required)
- Parking: 8:30–17:00 (varies seasonally)
Usage Guidelines
- Pets are allowed but must be kept on a leash
- Open flames are permitted only at the barbecue area
- Please take all trash with you (trash receptacles are not provided)
- Bicycles have some riding restrictions
- Collecting plants and wildlife is prohibited
Surrounding Area and Nearby Attractions
Nanasawa Onsen
Within walking distance of the park, Nanasawa Onsen hot spring resort offers day-use bathing facilities. After exercising in the forest park, relaxing in a hot spring is highly recommended. Nanasawa Onsen is known for its strongly alkaline beauty waters.
Hyuga Yakushi
Using the Kanto Fureai Road (Kanto Friendship Trail), you can enjoy hiking toward Hyuga Yakushi. This ancient temple is known for its historic structures and Buddhist statuary.
Lake Miyagase and Miyagase Dam
Approximately 30 minutes by car, Lake Miyagase is a representative tourist destination in Kanagawa. The dam’s tourist water releases are spectacular, and the lakeside offers seasonal scenery throughout the year.
Iiyama Hakusan
Hiking enthusiasts can extend their trip toward Iiyama Hakusan via the Kanto Fureai Road, enjoying satoyama (rural mountain) scenery on a full hiking adventure.
Contact Information
Nanasawa Forest Park Management Office
- Phone: 046-247-9870
- Address: 901-1 Nanasawa, Atsugi City, Kanagawa 243-0121
- Reception Hours: 8:30–17:00
Forest Atelier (Pottery and Craft Experience)
For program reservations and details, please contact the management office.
Kanagawa Parks Association
General inquiries about park operations are also accepted through the Kanagawa Parks Association website.
Conclusion: Experience Nature Away from Urban Hustle
Kanagawa Prefectural Nanasawa Forest Park, as one of the prefecture’s largest urban parks, is a precious destination offering diverse ways to enjoy itself. Whether you refresh your mind and body through forest therapy, observe nature’s seasonal changes, enjoy barbecuing, or engage in creative experiences, the park accommodates various visiting purposes.
Its beautiful natural environment, selected for both “100 Select Urban Parks in Japan” and “100 Select Flower Destinations,” provides a healing space that makes you forget urban bustle. The convenience of accessible access by bus from Honatsuki Station allows for easy day trips.
Whether visiting with family, friends, or alone for relaxation, enjoy Nanasawa Forest Park’s rich nature in your own style. The forest reveals different faces with each season, offering new discoveries with each visit. In this natural treasure of Kanagawa Prefecture, experience a special time to refresh your body and mind.
