Metsä (Metsä Village and Moominvalley Park) Complete Guide｜The Charm of a Nordic-Themed Amusement Park in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture
Metsä, which spreads along the shores of Miyazawa Lake in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, is a comprehensive leisure facility with a Nordic theme, surrounded by abundant nature, as its name suggests—meaning “forest” in Finnish. This facility, which opened in 2018, consists of two areas: the free-to-enjoy “Metsä Village” and the paid “Moominvalley Park,” where visitors can experience the world of Moomin.
With convenient access of about one hour from central Tokyo and an environment where visitors can enjoy nature in all four seasons, the facility attracts many families, couples, and Moomin fans on weekends and holidays. This article introduces all the charms of Metsä.
What is Metsä? Overview and History of the Facility
Metsä is a suburban leisure facility developed around Miyazawa Lake in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture. It has drawn attention as Japan’s first full-scale Nordic-themed amusement park, featuring the world of Moomin created by Finnish author Tove Jansson and a lifestyle theme inspired by Northern Europe.
Background of Metsä’s Development
The area surrounding Miyazawa Lake was formerly owned by the Seibu Group, and its natural, lakeside environment was well preserved. In 2013, the Seibu Group sold the land to FinTech Global Inc., and development of a new leisure facility themed around Northern Europe began.
In November 2018, “Metsä Village” first opened, followed by “Moominvalley Park” in March 2019. With these openings, Metsä was fully realized.
Basic Information About the Facility
- Location: 327-6 Miyazawa, Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture
- Total Area: Approximately 18.5 hectares
- Constituent Areas: Metsä Village (free admission area), Moominvalley Park (paid admission area)
- Operating Company: Moomin Story Inc.
Metsä Village: Free Area for Experiencing Nordic Lifestyle
Metsä Village is a public space where visitors can freely experience the Nordic lifestyle at no admission cost. Walking trails are arranged along the shores of Miyazawa Lake, allowing visitors to feel nature up close while enjoying shopping, dining, and activities.
Highlights of Metsä Village
Nordic Crafts and Shopping
Metsä Village features select shops handling Nordic design crafts and food products. From Finnish brands like Marimekko and Iittala to daily necessities from Sweden and Denmark, genuine Nordic items are well stocked.
Particularly noteworthy are traditional Nordic handicrafts and limited products. Many original goods sold only here make it an ideal place for souvenir shopping.
Restaurants and Cafés
Restaurants in Metsä Village primarily serve Nordic cuisine. There are various options ranging from authentic Nordic dishes using salmon and reindeer meat to casual café menus.
Terrace seating with views of the lake is particularly popular, allowing visitors to enjoy Nordic flavors in an open atmosphere on fine weather days.
Activities at Miyazawa Lake
Metsä Village offers various activities utilizing Miyazawa Lake. Canoe and kayak experiences are popular activities that provide a sense of unity with nature. Depending on the season, picnics and market events are also held along the lakeside.
Metsā Village Business Information
- Business Hours: 10:00～20:00 (may vary by season)
- Admission Fee: Free
- Parking: Free on weekdays, paid on weekends and holidays (approximately 1,500 yen)
Moominvalley Park: Paid Area for Experiencing the World of Moomin
Moominvalley Park is a theme park that faithfully recreates the world of Moomin’s stories. Designed as an experiential facility where visitors can meet the residents of Moomin Valley while cherishing the intentions of original author Tove Jansson.
Main Areas and Facilities in the Park
The Beginning Cove Area
The “Beginning Cove Area” that follows the park entrance is the gateway to Moomin Valley. Here, as an introduction to the world of the story, there are exhibits where visitors can learn about Tove Jansson’s life and works.
Moomin Valley Area
The “Moomin Valley Area,” which forms the center of the park, features life-size recreations of buildings that appear in the stories, such as the Moomin House, Snufkin’s tent, and the bathing hut.
Moomin House is the symbolic presence of the park. Visitors can tour the interior of the three-story mansion, with each room meticulously recreating the daily life of the Moomin family. From Moominpapa’s study in the basement to Little My’s room in the attic, fans of the stories will undoubtedly be moved.
Kokemus (Exhibition Facility)
Kokemus, meaning “experience” in Finnish, is a three-story exhibition facility.
- 1st Floor: Main shop for Moominvalley Park. Well-stocked with exclusive goods and Nordic crafts
- 2nd Floor: Permanent exhibitions and workshop space. Exhibits to deepen understanding of Moomin stories
- 3rd Floor: An impressive 8-meter diorama of Moomin Valley. The presentation changes with the seasons
Lonely Hill Area
Located at the back of the park, the “Lonely Hill Area” is a zone for adventure and attractions. Facilities for active enjoyment such as tree houses and forest hiking trails are available.
“Flying Demon Zip Line Adventure” is a popular attraction featuring a round-trip zip line of approximately 400 meters, gliding over Miyazawa Lake. The exhilaration of viewing Moomin Valley from the sky is incomparable (additional fee required).
Moominvalley Park Admission and Tickets
Admission Fees (as of 2024)
- Adults (junior high school students and above): 2,500 yen
- Children (ages 4 to elementary school): 1,500 yen
- Ages 3 and below: Free
※Prices may vary by period. Please check the official website for the latest information.
Attraction Fees
Some attractions and workshops require additional fees separate from admission.
- Moomin House Guided Tour: 1,000 yen
- Flying Demon Zip Line Adventure: 1,500 yen
- Various Workshops: 500 to 2,000 yen
How to Purchase Tickets at a Discount
Lawson Ticket sells advance tickets and various set tickets. Especially during busy periods, purchasing tickets in advance allows smooth entry on the day of visit.
Annual passports are also available, which are economical for those visiting three or more times per year. Passport members enjoy exclusive events and benefits.
Moominvalley Park Business Information
- Business Hours: 10:00～17:00 (varies by season, up to 20:00 maximum)
- Closed Days: Irregular (recommended to check official calendar)
- Approximate Duration: 3 to 5 hours
Access to Metsä
Metsä is located in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, and is accessible from central Tokyo in approximately one hour. Access methods by both train and car are provided below.
Access by Train
Using Seibu Ikebukuro Line
- From Ikebukuro Station, take the Seibu Ikebukuro Line Express for approximately 40 minutes, or local trains for approximately 50 minutes
- Get off at Hanno Station
- From Hanno Station North Exit, take the direct bus to “Metsā” for approximately 13 minutes
Buses operate 1 to 2 times per hour on weekdays and 2 to 3 times per hour on weekends and holidays.
Using JR Hachiōji Line
- From Hachiōji Station, take the JR Hachiōji Line for approximately 50 minutes
- Get off at Higashi-Hanno Station
- Walk from Higashi-Hanno Station to Hanno Station (approximately 5 minutes)
- Take a bus from Hanno Station North Exit
Access by Car
Using Ken’ō Chūō Renraku Expressway (Ken’ō Expressway)
- From Sayama-Hidaka IC in approximately 12 minutes (approximately 5.4 km)
- From Ōme IC in approximately 30 minutes (approximately 11 km)
Using Kan’etsu Expressway
- From Tsurugashima IC in approximately 26 minutes (approximately 14 km)
Set your car navigation to “327-6 Miyazawa, Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture” or search for “Metsā.”
Parking Information
Metsā has dedicated parking.
- Capacity: Approximately 1,000 vehicles
- Fees:
- Weekdays: Free
- Weekends and Holidays: 1,500 yen/day
- Peak Seasons: 2,500 yen/day
- Operating Hours: One hour before opening to one hour after closing
Temporary parking is also opened during congested times, but these may reach capacity; arriving early on weekends, holidays, and consecutive holidays is recommended.
Metsā RV Park
For campervan visitors, Metsā RV Park is also provided. Operating on a reservation-only basis, visitors can stay overnight with their vehicles while enjoying Metsā.
Metsā in All Four Seasons: How to Enjoy Each Season
Metsā presents different appearances in each of the four seasons due to the abundant natural environment surrounding Miyazawa Lake. Highlights for each season are introduced below.
Spring (March to May)
Spring at Metsā is a season of fresh greenery and blossoming flowers. During cherry blossom season, the cherry trees along the lakeside create magnificent scenery. From late April to May, azaleas and rhododendrons bloom splendidly.
Moominvalley Park features spring-only events and merchandise. Decorations and menus themed around “Vappu,” celebrating the arrival of spring in Northern Europe, can be enjoyed.
Summer (June to August)
Summer is the season when activities at Miyazawa Lake are most abundant. Canoe and kayak experiences are popular among families seeking coolness. Enjoying Nordic-style ice cream and drinks at lakeside terrace seating is also recommended.
From July to August, evening operations increase, and summer illuminations and fireworks events may be held.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn at Metsā features autumn foliage as its main attraction. From mid-November to mid-December, trees around Miyazawa Lake turn red and yellow, creating a landscape resembling a Nordic forest.
The lakeside walking trail in Metsā Village is especially suitable for autumn leaf viewing. The vivid autumn foliage against the backdrop of Moomin House is popular as a photography spot.
Autumn-limited menus feature Nordic-style desserts using chestnuts and pumpkins. Harvest festival-themed events are also held.
Winter (December to February)
Winter at Metsā is enveloped in a fantastical atmosphere with Christmas and winter illuminations. A Nordic Christmas market recreation event allows visitors to enjoy gløgg (hot wine) and traditional Christmas cuisine.
From January to February, visitors can leisurely savor the world of Moomin’s stories amid winter’s quiet. If snow falls, Moomin Valley truly becomes like Finland.
Dining and Gourmet at Metsā
Metsā features diverse dining facilities centered on Nordic cuisine. From authentic Nordic flavors to casual café menus, various needs are accommodated.
Restaurants in Metsā Village
Ragnarok (Nordic Cuisine Restaurant)
A restaurant offering authentic Nordic cuisine. Visitors can enjoy traditional dishes from Finland and Sweden, such as grilled salmon and reindeer steak. Dining while viewing Miyazawa Lake is exceptional.
Woodland Café
A casual café-style facility. Visitors can casually enjoy Nordic-style open sandwiches, cinnamon rolls, coffee, and more. Takeout is available, allowing a picnic experience by the lake.
Restaurants in Moominvalley Park
Pancake Restaurant
A restaurant centered on pancakes, which the Moomin family loves. The cute decorations featuring Moomin characters are popular and enjoyed by both children and adults.
Letula (Finnish Cuisine)
“Letula” means “picnic” in Finnish. The menu is based on Finnish home cooking, and dishes featured in Moomin stories are also recreated.
Recommended Gourmet Items
- Cinnamon Rolls: A Nordic staple dessert. Metsā’s cinnamon rolls recreate authentic flavors
- Salmon Soup: A traditional creamy Finnish soup
- Berry Juice: Refreshing beverages using Nordic berries
- Moomin Latte Art: Latte art featuring Moomin characters
Enjoying Metsā with Pets
Metsā is popular as a facility where pets can accompany visitors. Dog owners can enjoy the Nordic atmosphere with their dogs.
Rules for Visiting with Pets
Metsā Village
Pets may be brought while exploring Metsā Village, but the following rules must be observed.
- Leashes must always be worn (extendable leashes not allowed)
- Animal waste must be taken home
- Some food establishments prohibit pets indoors (some terrace seating may allow pets)
Moominvalley Park
Moominvalley Park generally prohibits pets. However, assistance dogs (guide dogs, service dogs, hearing dogs) are permitted.
Pet-Friendly Facilities
Metsā Village has water bowls and rest areas for pets. A dog run is also located near the parking lot for dogs to play.
Tourist Spots Around Metsā
When visiting Metsā, exploring nearby tourist spots in Hanno City allows for a more fulfilling day.
Tenran Mountain
Tenran Mountain, a symbolic landmark of Hanno City, is a hiking spot with an elevation of 197 meters that offers impressive views from its summit. Located about 15 minutes by car from Metsā, the hiking trail is well-maintained, making it safe even for beginners.
Known as a prime autumn foliage spot, from mid-to-late November, maple and ginkgo trees display beautiful colors.
Kama-kitako Lake
Located about 20 minutes by car from Metsā, Kama-kitako Lake is also called the “Maiden’s Lake,” a beautiful artificial reservoir. With a circumference of about 2 kilometers, the lake allows boating and fishing, while lakeside walking trails offer opportunities to enjoy seasonal nature.
The autumn foliage season is particularly spectacular, with reflected autumn leaves on the lake surface. Visiting alongside Metsā makes it a popular autumn foliage spot.
Koma Shrine
Koma Shrine in Hidaka City, adjacent to Hanno City, is an ancient shrine with over 1,300 years of history. About 20 minutes by car from Metsā. Dedicated to King Koma Wakamitsu, the shrine is credited with benefits of success and good fortune, with many politicians and business executives visiting for worship.
The grounds are lined with centuries-old giant trees, allowing serene worship in a quiet atmosphere.
Chikō Mountain Park Children’s Zoo
The Chikō Mountain Park Children’s Zoo in Sayama City is approximately 30 minutes by car from Metsā. The zoo offers interaction with small animals and features pony rides and experiences of feeding goats and sheep—activities children enjoy.
With reasonable admission fees, it is ideal for combining with Metsā for a family trip.
Events and Special Programs at Metsā
Throughout the year, Metsā hosts various events and special programs. From seasonal events to programs related to Moomin stories, each visit offers new discoveries.
Regularly Held Events
Moomin Character Greetings
Every day at Moominvalley Park, visitors can take commemorative photos with Moomin characters like Moomin, Snufkin, and Little My. Times vary daily; check upon arrival.
Moomin Valley Live Entertainment
At Emma’s Theater in the park, live shows based on Moomin stories are performed. The fusion of music, video, and character performances creates a moving show.
Seasonal Limited Events
Spring Easter Event
From late March to April, an event offering Nordic Easter culture experiences is held. Egg hunts, Easter-limited menus, and workshops are available.
Summer Summer Festival
From July to August, summer-only activities and nighttime events are held. A special experience of enjoying Moomin Valley at night is possible.
Autumn Harvest Festival
From September to November, events themed around harvest festivals are held. Limited menus featuring autumn flavors from Northern Europe and handmade markets are presented.
Winter Christmas Market
From late November to December, an authentic Nordic Christmas market appears. Visitors can enjoy hot wine and Christmas cuisine in an illumination-adorned park.
Points of Attention and Advice for Visiting Metsā
Tips for Avoiding Crowds
Metsā becomes very crowded on weekends and holidays, especially during spring and autumn sightseeing seasons. Tips for avoiding congestion follow.
Times Expected to Be Crowded
- Most crowded times: 11:00～14:00
- Relatively uncrowded times: Shortly after opening (around 10:00), after 15:00
Weekdays are relatively uncrowded, allowing leisurely facility enjoyment. Tuesday through Thursday are especially recommended.
Advance Preparation
- Purchase tickets in advance: Avoid same-day ticket counter congestion
- Use the official app: Check wait times and event information in real-time
- Arrive early: Ideally arrive at the parking lot 30 minutes before opening
Clothing and Belongings
Clothing
Given Metsā’s natural setting, comfortable walking shoes and flexible clothing are fundamental. Season-specific preparations are also necessary.
- Spring and Autumn: Bring a jacket as mornings and evenings are cool
- Summer: A hat and sunscreen are essential due to strong sunlight
- Winter: Prepare for cold as the lakeside is windy and chilly
Belongings
- Leisure sheet (convenient for lakeside picnics)
- Water bottle (vending machines are available in the park)
- Portable battery (due to extensive photography)
- Rain gear (weather can change quickly)
Photography Spots
Metsā is rich in Instagram-worthy photo spots.
- Before Moomin House: Commemorative photo with the park symbol
- Miyazawa Lake Pier: Photos with lake and forest background in Nordic style
- Kokemus’s Giant Diorama: Impressive scale
- Colorful Buildings in Metsā Village: Vibrant, Nordic-style background
Souvenirs and Shopping at Metsā
Metsā features exclusive goods found nowhere else and genuine Nordic crafts.
Shops in Moominvalley Park
Hajimari no Mise (Main Shop)
The main shop on the first floor of Kokemus features abundant Moominvalley Park-exclusive merchandise.
- Stuffed Animals: High-quality plushies of Moomin, Snufkin, and other characters
- Stationery: Notebooks, pens, masking tape, and other everyday-use items
- Food Products: Cookies, chocolate, tea, and other cute packaged confections
- Apparel: T-shirts, tote bags, hats, and other fashion items
Little My’s Puikka
A Little My goods specialty shop, a must-see for Little My fans.
Shops in Metsā Village
Nordic Craft Select Shop
Genuine Nordic brand items from Marimekko, Iittala, Arabia, and others offering tableware and crafts for purchase. Items difficult to obtain in Japan are also stocked.
Nordic Food Specialty Store
Traditional foods from Finland and Sweden, chocolates, jams, and more are sold. Nordic flavors can be enjoyed at home.
Conclusion: Fully Enjoy Nordic and Moomin’s World at Metsā
Metsā (Metsā Village and Moominvalley Park), located in Hanno City, Saitama Prefecture, is a special place where visitors can experience Nordic culture as if traveling to Northern Europe itself.
Metsā Village, available free of charge, allows visitors to touch Nordic lifestyles and enjoy Miyazawa Lake’s nature. Moominvalley Park immerses visitors in the world created by Tove Jansson, where encounters with story characters occur.
Presenting different appearances throughout the four seasons, Metsā offers new discoveries with each visit. Spring greenery, summer lakeside activities, autumn foliage, and winter illuminations—each season offers events and limited menus suited to the time of year.
The excellent access of about one hour from central Tokyo is also a significant attraction. It is ideal for weekend day trips or as a place to leisurely spend an entire day.
Families, couples, Moomin fans, those interested in Nordic culture, nature enthusiasts, and those wanting outings with their beloved dogs—the facility appeals to diverse visitors.
Please experience the special time of feeling the Nordic breeze at Metsā while immersing yourself in Moomin’s world. Surely, you will have a heartwarming experience that allows you to escape daily life.
Check the official website for the latest event information and business hours for planned visits. At Metsā, enjoy your unique Nordic experience and encounter with Moomin’s stories.
