Sick of the city? The city of Anjo, long famous in Japan for its agricultural achievements, created Denpark for that reason. The agricultural achievements and stability of the region have caused Anjo to be dubbed ‘little Denmark’ for its likeness. With a playful twist of the name, you have Denpark, where you can take in some greenery and relax in a natural garden atmosphere.
The flowers are the main attraction of the park and they come in all sizes and colors. See lotuses floating in a pond so covered with them that you can’t even see the water. See topiaries fashioned into animals and colored with flora. The paths are very atmospheric, with statues and brick structures dotting the landscape. There is an old-fashioned wind mill near the topiaries and Kitchen Garden.
If you’re looking to shop, there are three areas in Denpark which sell different types of things. Children’s toys can be found at Margaret House. For quaint western-style items, try the shops in Floral Place (I confess, I was geeked to find Dr. Pepper here – it’s not very common in Japan). Got a hankering for a sausage or some crusty bread? Head to the marketplace.
Even something as relaxing as strolling among flowers can work up an appetite and Denpark has you covered there, too. There are a variety of offerings ranging from hamburgers to multi-dish Japanese fare. Take your pick.
Flowers may be all well and good for adults, but if you’ve got kids with you, they’ll probably get bored pretty quickly. Denpark’s kiddy area has places to climb, slide, and play. There is a train or bumper-car-like vehicles available for a nominal fee. Go all the way to Japan and feel a desire to dress your child up in traditional Danish clothing? That’s an option too! For 300yen you can dress your child up for a picture.
Denpark offers classes on a variety of subjects including sausage-making, flower-arrangement, handicrafts, and more. Classes require a reservation and the costs are listed on the website. Various classes are available for individuals or groups.
Seasonally, visitors can enjoy festivals and displays on Anjo’s hand-held fireworks – a show where men parade around on stage (walking or running depending on the size on the piece) holding a tube which spews sparks into the air. These sparks rain down on the men who wear padded, flame-retardant happi coats. It’s a sight to see. These hand-held fireworks are a regional specialty and aren’t found in most of Japan.
Denpark is closed on Tuesdays and national holidays. Admission is 600yen for adults and 300yen for junior high and under. Not something that can often be said in Japan, Denpark offers handicapped-accessible routes and welcomes service dogs.
