Overview

Nature rules the roost in Akiruno City. An easy trip out of central Tokyo, the city's natural spaces feature verdant forests and hills while closer to the urban centre can be found numerous parks worthy of a look. Here is a simple introduction to some of the parks of Akiruno and how to reach them.

Ajiro Benten-yama Park

Located on a low mountain rise, Ajiro Benten-yama Park asks for a relatively straightforward trek up its slopes in order to take in its lovely views over the city. Along the way, visitors will find a Shinto shrine with sacred torii gates, roped off caves, blossoming trees and a wonderful sense of the outdoors.

A 6-minute drive or 25-minute walk from Musashi-Masuko Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.

Akirudai Park

A more conventional suburban space, Akirudai Park is still an impressive destination for the locals. Its athletic track is a draw while the park's fountain is a boon during the hot summer months. Plenty of cherry blossoms and beds of flowering gardens, the park is a great place to stop by come festival time.

A 15-minute walk from either Akigawa or Higashi-Akiru stations on the JR Itsukaichi Line.

Kusabana Park

Sitting along the southern banks of the Hirai River, Kusabana Park is a wonderfully local space with plenty to enjoy. Its river views give a sense of motion, the ponds with viewing platforms open up the park space even more, while the city's swimming pool and baseball field naturally attract the action-oriented.

A 20-minute walk from Higashi-Akiru Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.

Yokosawa-iri

Simply put, you would never believe that you were still in Tokyo. And so it is with Yokosawa-iri, the entrance to some seriously open nature. Situated well into the western region of the city, the entrance is surrounded by trees, hills, wild birds and insects and as you walk on through, rice fields and local culture.

A 20-minute walk from Musashi-Maskuko Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.