Complete Guide to Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park | Facilities, Access, and How to Enjoy
Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park, located in Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture, is the largest comprehensive park in the city, boasting an area of 450,000 square meters. From a full-scale comprehensive stadium where professional sports matches are held, to athletic facilities for families to enjoy, to gardens where flowers bloom in all seasons, the park features a diverse array of facilities.
This article presents the complete appeal of Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park. We provide comprehensive coverage of information you should know before visiting, including detailed information on each facility, access methods, seasonal activities, and recommended nearby spots.
About Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park
Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park is an urban park managed by Chiba Prefecture that opened in 1985 (Showa 60). It was developed alongside the development of the area surrounding Kashiwa-no-Ha Campus Station, and has become a favorite gathering place representing Kashiwa City, serving many visitors throughout the year.
At the center of the park is a large boat pond, surrounded by lush green walking paths. As a comprehensive park that harmonizes sports facilities, recreation facilities, and cultural facilities, it is a space where people of all ages, from children to seniors, can spend time as they wish.
Characteristics of the Park
The greatest characteristic of Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park lies in the diversity of its facilities. The comprehensive stadium, which can accommodate 20,000 people, hosts large-scale sporting events such as the Rugby Top League and the National High School Soccer Championship Chiba Prefecture Tournament. On the other hand, the Japanese garden “Makigahara-en” offers a quiet Japanese space, making it possible to have completely different experiences within a single park.
While located in an urban area, it maintains a rich natural environment and is known as a bird-watching spot. Various birds visit throughout the seasons, making it a popular location for bird-watching enthusiasts.
Detailed Introductions of Major Facilities
Kashiwa-no-Ha Park Comprehensive Stadium
The comprehensive stadium is the largest sports facility within the park. It features a nine-lane all-weather track that meets the requirements for official track and field competitions. With a capacity of approximately 20,000 people, it is also used as a venue for professional sports matches.
Rugby Top League matches allow visitors to watch exciting plays up close. It is also used as a venue for the National High School Soccer Championship Chiba Prefecture Tournament, serving as a stage for young talent to compete. General use is also possible, allowing individuals to use it for running and training.
Baseball Field
A full-scale baseball field accommodating both hardball and softball. With a capacity of 12,000 people, it hosts official high school baseball games as well. The grounds are well-maintained, providing an environment conducive to play.
General use requires advance reservation, and use is typically on a team basis. On weekends, many baseball teams use the facility, creating a lively atmosphere.
Boukken no Toride
The large-scale athletic facility “Boukken no Toride” (Adventure Towers) is a particularly crowded area within the park and is extremely popular with children. The wooden complex playground features slides, suspension bridges, rope nets, and various other play elements combined together to stimulate children’s sense of adventure.
Primarily targeted at ages 3 to 12, with play equipment of varying difficulty levels placed throughout, allowing a wide age range to enjoy. Surrounding the facilities are grassy open spaces where parents can watch their children play.
Rose Garden
The rose garden has 86 varieties and approximately 1,000 rose plants. The roses reach their peak twice a year: spring (mid-May to early June) and autumn (mid-October to early November).
The sight of colorful roses in full bloom is spectacular, with many visitors coming with cameras in hand. You can enjoy different fragrances and flower shapes by variety, offering an impressive collection for rose enthusiasts. Benches are also set throughout the garden, allowing visitors to spend leisurely time surrounded by the fragrance of roses.
Japanese Garden “Makigahara-en” and Tea House “Shouhakutei”
The Japanese garden “Makigahara-en” is a space that conveys the beauty of traditional Japanese gardens to modern times. Designed as a pond-viewing stroll garden, you can enjoy the atmosphere of each season.
Within the garden is the tea house “Shouhakutei,” where you can enjoy matcha tea at the standing-style seating area (fee required). Consideration has been given so that those who find it difficult to sit on tatami mats can also casually enjoy the atmosphere of tea ceremony in chairs. The matcha served with Japanese sweets provides a soothing time during your walk.
In the Japanese garden, trees such as pines and Japanese maples are arranged, with particularly impressive scenery during the autumn foliage season. Recommended for those wishing to calm their hearts in a quiet space.
Boat Pond
The large boat pond located at the center of the park is an iconic symbol of Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park. A walking path surrounds the pond, which is approximately 1 kilometer in circumference, with people enjoying jogging and walking visible along it.
The pond is home to ducks, herons, and other waterfowl, making it a popular bird-watching spot. Particularly during winter, migratory birds also visit, attracting bird-watching enthusiasts. Many benches are set around the pond, allowing visitors to spend time leisurely while enjoying the water scenery.
Cherry Blossom Plaza
Cherry Blossom Plaza is the representative spring spot of Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park. Approximately 400 cherry trees are planted, reaching full bloom from late March to early April.
Centered on Somei Yoshino, various cherry blossom varieties are planted, with slightly staggered blooming times, allowing you to enjoy cherry blossom viewing for a relatively long period. The plaza features sprawling grassy areas where visitors can lay out picnic blankets for flower viewing. During the cherry blossom season, many families and friend groups visit, enveloped in a lively spring celebration atmosphere.
Barbecue Area
The park also has a barbecue area where you can enjoy outdoor dining. Use requires advance reservation, and group use is the standard.
The facilities are equipped with basic necessities, with food and cooking equipment brought in by each group. A popular facility where families and friends can spend enjoyable time surrounded by nature. For available periods and reservation methods, it is recommended to check with the park management office.
Park Center
The Park Center is the information hub of Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park. It houses the management office, a green gallery, green consultation desk, library corner, conference rooms, and more.
At the green consultation desk, you can receive free advice from specialists on gardening-related questions. Information useful for gardening enthusiasts, such as plant care methods and pest management, is available.
The rooftop features an herb garden where various herbs are cultivated. You can enjoy the fragrances while learning about herb varieties and uses.
The green gallery regularly hosts exhibitions related to plants and nature, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the park’s appeal.
Tennis Courts, Gymnasium, and Training Room
Sports facilities including tennis courts, gymnasium, and training room are also fully equipped. These facilities are fee-based and require advance reservation.
Multiple tennis courts accommodate hardball tennis. The gymnasium allows you to enjoy indoor sports such as basketball and volleyball. The training room is equipped with various machines enabling serious training.
These facilities regularly offer sports classes with programs available for both beginners and experienced athletes.
Dog Run
A welcome facility for dog lovers, a dog run is provided. It is divided into a small dog area and a medium/large dog area with safety-conscious design.
Use requires registration, and proof of rabies vaccination must be presented. It is a precious place where owners can let their dogs run freely, making it popular with many pet owners.
Green Consultation Desk
At the green consultation desk, you can receive professional advice on plants and gardening. Consultation is free, and diagnosis of brought-in plants is also available.
Regular gardening lectures and workshops are held, providing opportunities to learn practical knowledge and skills. Content accommodates a wide range of levels, from beginner to advanced gardeners.
Seasonal Activities and Enjoyment
Spring (March to May)
Spring at Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park is the most vibrant season when flowers bloom profusely. From late March to early April, approximately 400 cherry trees reach full bloom, and the Cherry Blossom Plaza becomes crowded with flower-viewing visitors.
From mid-May, the rose garden comes into season. With 86 varieties and approximately 1,000 rose plants in full colorful bloom, the garden is enveloped in sweet fragrance. During this period, events such as “Rose Festa” may be held, allowing visitors to enjoy rose beauty in various forms.
Spring offers mild weather, making it ideal for walking and picnicking. Walking among the new greenery allows you to feel the vitality of nature awakening from winter dormancy.
Summer (June to August)
Summer at Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park is the season when greenery is most dense. Tree leaves grow thick, with shade providing refreshing coolness.
Around the boat pond, many people can be seen walking to enjoy the coolness of the water’s edge. Early mornings and evenings see many jogging enthusiasts, making it utilized as a place for healthy lifestyles.
During summer vacation, children can be seen actively playing at Boukken no Toride. The barbecue area is also popular, with reservations often fully booked on weekends, making early booking recommended.
Events including outdoor stage performances may be held during summer, with music concerts and other entertainment available.
Autumn (September to November)
Autumn is when the rose garden again reaches its peak. From mid-October to early November, roses with muted autumn tones bloom magnificently. Autumn roses are said to have stronger fragrance, allowing you to enjoy richer aromas.
In November, the Japanese garden “Makigahara-en” displays beautiful autumn foliage colors. Maple and cherry leaves turn red and yellow, and the sight of autumn leaves reflected in the pond is exceptional. Enjoying matcha at the tea house “Shouhakutei” while viewing autumn foliage is a luxurious autumn experience.
Autumn offers stable weather, making it ideal for walking and sports. Various competitions are held at the comprehensive stadium and baseball field, allowing visitors to fully enjoy the sports season.
Winter (December to February)
Winter at Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park is enveloped in a quiet, calm atmosphere. Trees lose their leaves, but the sky feels wider, and on clear winter days, a refreshing landscape unfolds.
Winter birds visit the boat pond, making it ideal for bird-watching season. You can observe various waterfowl, centered on ducks. Bringing binoculars enhances detailed bird observation.
Indoor facilities such as the training room and gymnasium remain available for normal use even in winter, allowing continuous exercise regardless of weather.
On cold days, enjoying warm matcha at the tea house “Shouhakutei” is recommended. A cup of tea while viewing the winter-quiet garden becomes a warming experience for both body and mind.
Event Information
Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park hosts various events throughout the year.
Regular Events
Flea markets are held regularly and are popular events. With many vendors gathering, there is the pleasure of finding hidden treasures. Event dates can be confirmed on the park’s official website.
Sports classes are also regularly held, with various programs available including tennis, running, and yoga. Instruction suited to each level, from beginner to advanced, is provided.
Gardening lectures are held under the Green Consultation Desk. You can learn practical content such as seasonal plant care and arrangement techniques.
Seasonal Events
Spring may feature cherry blossom festivals or rose festivals. Concerts and workshops are organized to coincide with peak flower viewing.
Summer may include outdoor music events where you can enjoy live performances on an outdoor stage.
Autumn hosts many sports events such as marathon races and walking events.
Event information can be confirmed on the park’s official website and bulletin boards at the park center. Some events require advance registration, so it is recommended to check information early if you wish to participate.
Basic Information (Operating Hours, Access, etc.)
Operating Hours
Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park is generally open 24 hours, but individual facilities have their own operating hours.
- Park Center: 9:00～17:00
- Comprehensive Stadium, Baseball Field, Gymnasium: Varies by facility (check in advance)
- Tea House “Shouhakutei”: 10:00～16:00 (Closed Mondays; if Monday is a holiday, closed the following day)
- Barbecue Area: Reservation required; operating hours confirmed at time of reservation
Some facilities close during year-end and New Year period (December 29 to January 3). For details, contact Kashiwa-no-Ha Park Management Office (Phone: 04-7134-2015).
Access
Access by Train and Bus
- From Tsukuba Express “Kashiwa-no-Ha Campus” Station
- Board Tobu Bus heading to “Kashiwa Station West Exit,” “Takada Bus Depot,” or “Kashiwa-no-Ha Park”
- Get off at “Park Center” bus stop, approximately 1 minute walk
- Travel time: approximately 5-10 minutes
- From JR Joban Line and Tobu Noda Line “Kashiwa Station” West Exit
- Board Tobu Bus heading to “Kashiwa-no-Ha Campus” or “National Cancer Center”
- Get off at “Park Center” bus stop, approximately 1 minute walk
- Travel time: approximately 20 minutes
Access by Car
- From Joban Expressway “Kashiwa Interchange”
- Exit toward Chiba and turn right at “Towayoni Industrial Zone Entrance” intersection
- Travel time: approximately 10 minutes
- From Route 16 National Highway
- Turn left at Wakashiba intersection and turn right at the third traffic light
- Park is visible on the left
Parking
Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park has multiple parking areas.
- North Parking: approximately 300 spaces
- South Parking: approximately 100 spaces
Parking Fees
- Passenger vehicle: 300 yen per day (as of 2024)
- Large vehicle: 1,000 yen per day
Congestion is expected on weekends, holidays, and during cherry blossom season and events. If full, use nearby paid parking or use public transportation is recommended.
Address and Contact Information
- Address: 4-1 Kashiwa-no-Ha, Kashiwa City, Chiba Prefecture 277-0882, Japan
- Phone: 04-7134-2015 (Kashiwa-no-Ha Park Management Office)
- Official Website: http://www.cue-net.or.jp/kouen/kasiwa/
Admission Fee
Park admission is free. However, fees apply for use of some paid facilities (comprehensive stadium, baseball field, gymnasium, tennis courts, training room, etc.). Fees vary by facility, so check with the management office or official website before use.
Nearby Recommended Spots
Chicol☆Park
An indoor children’s play facility near Kashiwa-no-Ha Campus Station. Weather-independent play makes it ideal as a rainy day alternative plan. Various play equipment including ball pools and slides is available in a safe environment for young children.
RECAMPshonan
A facility offering authentic camping experiences. Located approximately 30 minutes by car from Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park, recommended for those wishing to enjoy outdoor activities in nature. Tent sites and cottages available make camping accessible even for beginners.
LaLaport Kashiwa-no-Ha
A large shopping mall directly connected to Kashiwa-no-Ha Campus Station. Housing diverse stores including fashion, miscellaneous goods, and restaurants, it is convenient for shopping and dining after park walks.
Kashiwa-no-Ha T-SITE
A complex facility centered on Tsutaya bookstore, also featuring cafes and restaurants. You can enjoy reading and dining in a calm atmosphere.
Nearby Recommended Restaurants
Il Giglio
A restaurant offering authentic Italian cuisine. Located in the Kashiwa-no-Ha area, you can enjoy chef’s specialty pasta and pizza. Lunch sets offer good value, making them recommended after park activities.
Gleeful Coffee
A cafe emphasizing specialty coffee. Carefully brewed coffee offers high aroma, perfect for a break after park activities. Light meals and desserts are abundant, providing a relaxed atmosphere.
Cafe Inside Kashiwa-no-Ha Park
A cafe within the park offers light food and beverages. Convenient rest without leaving the park, useful for extended visits.
Nearby Hotel and Accommodation Information
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kashiwa-no-Ha
A hotel within walking distance of Kashiwa-no-Ha Campus Station. Modern, clean rooms and comprehensive facilities accommodate both business and tourism. Breakfast buffet is also well-received.
Hotel Route-Inn Kashiwa
A business hotel located near Kashiwa Station. Despite reasonable pricing, comfortable accommodations are provided. A large bath is available to relax after a day’s activities.
Kashiwa Plaza Hotel
A hotel within walking distance of Kashiwa Station, distinguished by excellent access. Simple yet functional rooms make it easily usable as a base for tourism or business.
Notes and Manners for Use
To comfortably use Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park, please note the following.
Taking Out Trash
Trash bins may not be installed throughout the park. Please take all trash with you. Cooperation is requested to protect the natural environment.
Bringing Pets
Pets may accompany you, but leashes must be worn and waste must be taken with you. Off-leash pets are prohibited except in the dog run. Please consider other users.
Use of Fire
Use of fire outside the barbecue area is prohibited. To enjoy barbecuing, always reserve and use the designated barbecue area.
Bicycle Entry
Bicycle entry is restricted in some park areas. Outside designated areas, please walk your bicycle.
Facility Reservations
Advance reservations are required to use fee-based facilities such as the comprehensive stadium, baseball field, tennis courts, and barbecue area. Early booking is especially recommended as weekends and holidays become crowded.
Conclusion
Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park is a comprehensive park where you can enjoy diverse activities including sports, recreation, nature observation, and cultural experiences. Across its vast 450,000 square-meter grounds are facilities ranging from a comprehensive stadium hosting professional sports matches to the Boukken no Toride where children play, from the beautiful rose garden to the Japanese garden showcasing seasonal flowers.
With spring cherry blossoms, early summer and autumn roses, autumn foliage, and winter bird-watching, each season offers unique charm with new discoveries on every visit. Easily accessed by bus from Kashiwa-no-Ha Campus or Kashiwa stations, and conveniently close to Joban Expressway by car.
Picnicking with family, sports with friends, solo walks, or walks with pets—Chiba Prefectural Kashiwa-no-Ha Park accommodates various purposes. When visiting Kashiwa City, please stop by. In this space where rich nature and comprehensive facilities harmonize despite its urban location, you are sure to experience a refreshing time for body and mind.
