Saitama Prefectural Wako Jurin Park (Saitama Prefecture) Complete Guide｜The Charm of Emi Park Wako Jurin and Access Information
Saitama Prefectural Wako Jurin Park is a vast urban park located in Wako City, Saitama Prefecture. From January 2026, it will also be known by the affectionate name “Emi Park Wako Jurin.” While it has a historical background as the site of a former U.S. military base, today it serves as a place of relaxation for prefectural residents and functions as a multipurpose park with capabilities as a wide-area evacuation site.
Overview of Saitama Prefectural Wako Jurin Park
Basic Information About the Park
Saitama Prefectural Wako Jurin Park is a comprehensive prefectural park boasting a total area of 20.2 hectares. It was built utilizing part of the former “Camp Asaka Base” (Camp Drake), which was occupied by U.S. military forces in 1945, with the aim of securing a comfortable residential environment and creating beautiful urban landscapes. It opened in March 1989 (Heisei 1) and has been loved by local residents for over 30 years.
The park features approximately 5,000 trees planted throughout, creating an environment surrounded by abundant greenery. Various facilities are installed including lawn areas, play equipment zones, jogging courses, and health exercise equipment, allowing visitors of all ages to enjoy sports and recreation.
Affectionate Name “Emi Park Wako Jurin” Through Naming Rights
From January 1, 2026, Sebu Ryokka Kanri Co., Ltd. was selected for the naming rights project for prefectural parks implemented by Saitama Prefecture and acquired the affectionate name “Emi Park Wako Jurin.” The contract period is 5 years and 3 months, from January 1, 2026 to March 31, 2031. This name is part of efforts to further develop the park as a community-rooted and approachable facility.
Historical Background of Wako Jurin Park
Transformation from Camp Asaka Base
The site of Wako Jurin Park was part of “Camp Asaka Base” (commonly called Camp Drake), which was occupied by U.S. military forces in 1945 after World War II. This base was used as a U.S. military facility for many years, but after its return, effective use of the site became an important issue for the region.
Saitama Prefecture decided to develop this valuable land as a public space for residents and proceeded with urban park development. Under the clear objectives of securing a comfortable residential environment and creating beautiful urban landscapes, the site was reborn as a verdant comprehensive park.
Relationship with Surrounding Facilities
Wako Jurin Park is surrounded by facilities that also utilize former military base sites. Within the park is the Wako City General Gymnasium, and adjacent to it are Tokyo Metropolitan Oizumi Central Park, Nerima Ward Oizumi Sakura Sports Park, and the Ground Self-Defense Force Asaka Base. Together with these facilities, the park contributes to wide-area disaster prevention functions and improved living environments for residents.
Four-Seasons Appeal and Highlights
Spring Cherry Blossom Season
Spring at Wako Jurin Park offers a breathtaking view with approximately 1,700 cherry blossoms blooming all at once. Centered on Somei Yoshino, multiple varieties are planted including Higan Cherry and Kan Cherry, allowing visitors to enjoy cherry blossoms for an extended period from early to late blooming.
The spacious lawn area becomes crowded with families and groups enjoying picnics and cherry blossom viewing under the cherry trees. With good access from central Tokyo, it has become a popular spot attracting many flower-viewing visitors from Tokyo.
Autumn Foliage Season
Autumn at Wako Jurin Park showcases beautiful fall colors from diverse tree species that gradually change hue. Around mid-October, the kochia planted throughout the park turns pink, announcing the arrival of autumn. The kochia’s fall foliage is a distinctive landscape rarely seen in other parks and is popular as a photo-taking spot.
From late November through early December, various trees in the park including maple, red maple, azalea, katsura, and metasequoia gradually turn color. Particularly striking is the contrast between the golden color of metasequoia and the red of red maple, allowing visitors to truly feel the deepening of autumn while walking along the paths.
Summer and Winter Enjoyment
During summer, the shade of the trees provides a cool environment where visitors can enjoy walking and jogging while escaping the heat. The lawn area also has children enjoying water play, making it an ideal family outing spot during summer vacation.
Winter features the quiet landscape after deciduous trees have shed their leaves. On clear days, distant mountains can be viewed from the park, allowing visitors to feel the park’s appeal as it displays a different appearance in each season.
Main Facilities and Areas Within the Park
Lawn Area
The vast lawn area is the central section of Wako Jurin Park. This open space is available for multipurpose use, including picnics, ball games, frisbee, and badminton. On weekends, the area fills with families and groups enjoying their time.
The grass is well-maintained and can be used comfortably throughout the year. The surrounding area is planted with tall trees such as cherry and zelkova, providing appropriate shade.
Children’s Play Equipment Area
The area with abundant children’s play equipment provides a safe environment for children ranging from toddlers to elementary school students. Slides, swings, and complex play structures are installed, with many parent-child pairs visiting on weekends.
Many benches are positioned around the equipment area, allowing parents to rest while supervising.
Jogging and Walking Course
The jogging and walking course that circles the park’s perimeter is ideal for health maintenance and training. The course combines paved paths and natural dirt paths, allowing exercise while reducing stress on the knees.
From early morning through evening, local residents can be seen jogging and walking, using the space for health improvement. Distance markers are provided, enabling goal-oriented training.
Health Exercise Equipment Area
The area with health exercise equipment for adults offers multiple pieces of equipment for stretching and strength training. Facilities include a back-stretching bench, twist board, and pull-up bars, which help with stretching before and after exercise and daily health maintenance.
Tree Forest Area
Part of the park features an area utilizing natural tree forest. Walking paths are developed, allowing visitors to enjoy forest bathing in a quiet atmosphere. Known as a birdwatching spot, it attracts birding enthusiasts.
Integrated Use with Wako City General Gymnasium
The Wako City General Gymnasium located within the park is a comprehensive sports facility equipped with a gymnasium, training room, and swimming pool. By combining outdoor activities in the park with indoor activities in the gymnasium, visitors can enjoy sports and recreation regardless of weather.
The gymnasium regularly hosts various sports classes and events, serving as a hub for promoting sports in the community.
Disaster Prevention Function and Role as Wide-Area Evacuation Site
Saitama Prefectural Wako Jurin Park serves not only as a recreation facility but also plays an important role as a wide-area evacuation site during disasters. The vast open space is designated as a location where surrounding residents can temporarily evacuate in case of large-scale disasters.
The park is equipped with disaster prevention toilets and disaster prevention storage, with necessary facilities prepared for emergencies. Additionally, the adjacent Niiza Green Path functions as an 480-meter promenade serving as an evacuation route for residents in case of disaster.
Access Information
Access by Public Transportation
By Train
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from the south exit of “Wako-shi Station” on the Tobu Tojo Line
- Approximately 15 minutes on foot from the south exit of “Wako-shi Station” on the Tokyo Metro Marunouchi Line and Fukutoshin Line
Wako-shi Station offers excellent access from central Tokyo, approximately 15 minutes from Ikebukuro Station and approximately 25 minutes from Shibuya Station. The route from the station to the park is flat and easy to walk.
By Bus
From the south exit of Wako-shi Station, use Kokusai Kōgyō Bus or Seibu Bus to get off at the “Wako Jurin Park” bus stop. Using the bus can reduce walking time.
Access by Automobile
Access from Major Roads
- Approximately 5 minutes from “Wako-Kita IC” on the Tokyo Outer Ring Expressway
- Accessible from Route 254 (Kawagoe Kaido)
Parking Information
Dedicated parking is available at the park. However, the lot may become full during busy seasons such as cherry blossom and fall foliage seasons, so using public transportation is recommended. It is advisable to check parking hours and fees in advance with the park administration office.
Surrounding Facilities and Tourist Spots
Tokyo Metropolitan Oizumi Central Park
Oizumi Central Park, a Tokyo metropolitan park adjacent to Wako Jurin Park, is located in Nerima Ward, Tokyo. By exploring both parks together, visitors can enjoy a wider range of natural environments.
Nerima Ward Oizumi Sakura Sports Park
This adjacent facility features well-equipped sports facilities including baseball fields and tennis courts. For sports enthusiasts, this location provides access to multiple facilities.
Facilities Around Camp Asaka Site
The site of the former Camp Asaka Base is now home to the Ground Self-Defense Force Asaka Base, as well as multiple parks and public facilities such as Asaka no Mori and Asaka Central Park. Exploring the surrounding area while feeling the historical background provides an interesting experience.
Precautions and Etiquette for Park Use
Park Usage Rules
- Open fires are prohibited (barbecues not permitted)
- Pets may enter but must be kept on a leash
- Bicycles are restricted to designated areas only
- Please take all trash home with you
- Collecting plants and feeding animals are prohibited
- Please be considerate of other users
Facility Hours
The park itself is generally open 24 hours, but parking and some facilities have usage time restrictions. Please check the park administration office or official website for details.
Management and Operations
Saitama Prefectural Wako Jurin Park is managed and operated by Sebu Zoen Co., Ltd. and Sebu Ryokka Kanri Co., Ltd. as designated managers. These companies are part of the Sebu Group and utilize their long-standing expertise in park management to maintain facilities and improve visitor services.
Daily maintenance such as park cleaning, landscaping, and facility inspection and repair are well-maintained, ensuring a consistently comfortable environment. Additionally, the companies actively plan seasonal events and engage in community cooperation activities.
Events and Seasonal Activities
Wako Jurin Park hosts various events and activities throughout the year.
Spring Events
During cherry blossom season, flower-viewing events and nature observation walks may be held. Natural experience programs targeting local children are also implemented.
Autumn Events
During fall foliage season, foliage walking events and photography contests are planned. Special guidance may be provided during kochia foliage season.
Year-Round Programs
Regular programs for health promotion such as jogging classes, yoga classes, and health exercise classes are also offered. Check the park’s bulletin boards and official information for detailed schedules.
Appeal as a Photography Spot
Wako Jurin Park is popular as a photography spot because it offers beautiful scenery throughout the four seasons.
Recommended Photography Points
- Spring Cherry Blossoms: The cherry tree rows surrounding the lawn area form a spectacular cherry blossom tunnel when in full bloom
- Autumn Kochia Area: Pink-tinted kochia is a popular photographic subject on social media such as Instagram
- Foliage in Tree Forest: The overlapping colors of autumn leaves in the tree forest provide a spot where natural beauty can be felt
- Metasequoia Tree Rows: The tree rows of gleaming golden metasequoia are a representative autumn photography point
Commercial photography and drone use require permits, so please contact the administration office in advance.
Nearby Food and Rest Facilities
Since food and dining facilities within the park are limited, it is recommended to prepare drinks and light snacks beforehand. The area around Wako-shi Station has abundant convenience stores, supermarkets, and restaurants where you can purchase necessities before heading to the park.
When enjoying a picnic on the lawn, it is good to bring a leisure sheet and boxed lunch. However, please be sure to take all trash with you when leaving.
Year-Round Enjoyment
Saitama Prefectural Wako Jurin Park has different attractions in each season, and there are new discoveries to be made with every visit throughout the year.
Spring (March–May): Cherry blossom viewing, new greenery walks, spring flower appreciation
Summer (June–August): Reading in shade, early morning jogging, summer vacation family recreation
Autumn (September–November): Kochia foliage, fall foliage hunting, walking in refreshing autumn air
Winter (December–February): Quiet winter landscapes, birdwatching, continuing winter exercise habits
Finding enjoyment suited to each season allows visitors to experience the park’s appeal more deeply.
Contact Information
For detailed information about the park, current opening status, and event information, please contact the following:
Wako Jurin Park Administration Office
Address: 3 Hirosawa, Wako City, Saitama Prefecture
The official website provides information on the latest news, seasonal highlights, and parking congestion status. It is recommended to check before visiting.
Summary
Saitama Prefectural Wako Jurin Park (Emi Park Wako Jurin) is a vast 20.2-hectare urban park that was reborn from a former U.S. military base site. In a verdant environment with approximately 5,000 planted trees, visitors can enjoy spring cherries, autumn foliage, and diverse recreational activities throughout the year.
The location is attractive due to its proximity to central Tokyo and walkable distance from Wako-shi Station. With facilities such as lawn areas, play equipment zones, jogging courses, and health exercise equipment, the park is accessible to a wide age range and attracts families, sports enthusiasts, and many others.
Additionally, the park serves an important public function with disaster prevention capabilities as a wide-area evacuation site, contributing to community safety and security. Please visit Saitama Prefectural Wako Jurin Park to experience the beauty of nature throughout the seasons while spending time on health improvement and refreshment.
