Overview
Packed with history it may be but Hinode Town is still surrounded by the full natural bounty of the Tama region. Mountain landscapes combine with cultural and suburban traditions to create a fresh atmosphere to the town's parks. Here is an introduction to some of the natural spaces of Hinode and how to reach them.
Kodomomirai Park
A short stroll from the Hirai River, the town's Kodomomirai Park is very much a case of now-you-see-it and now-you-don't. On first glance, the park is nothing more than an empty - though tidy - space with a gazebo and bench. Come the winter season though, this space transforms into a fantastic local display of festive night time illumination.
A 20-minute walk or a 4-minute drive from Musashi-Itsukaichi Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.
Hinode Reien
An unusual addition to a parks and gardens list, to be sure, but Hinode Reienis not your usual park. Known in English as the Hinode Cemetery Memorial Garden Park, the layout of this space lends itself to some wonderful mountain valley views. As beautiful as the park may be, proper decorum here is of course a must.
A 13-minute drive from Musashi-Masuko Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.
Sakana-en
Surrounded by tree covered mountain slopes and drawing on water from the Hirai River, Sakana-en is a little fishing park perfect for children and absolute beginners. Its verdant surroundings create a sense of isolation from standard Tokyo, with little fish caught, open flame grilled and eaten with dash of salt.
A 10-minute drive or a 12-minute no.21 or 21 bus ride from Musashi-Itsukaichi Sation on the JR Itsukaichi Line.
Yachonomori Kodomo Natural Park
Well protected, Yachonomori Kodomo Natural Park is more mountain forest than the usual suburban park. Plenty of walking trails that even children can enjoy, the serene forest surroundings make the park a proper haven of tranquillity with plenty of opportunities for some local bird watching.
A 7-minute drive from Musashi-Hikada Station on the JR Itsukaichi Line.
