Saitama

<p>This is probably the most popular building  as it boasts of beautiful wooden floors, numerous unexpected windows, and vintage furnishings. </p>

This is probably the most popular building as it boasts of beautiful wooden floors, numerous unexpected windows, and vintage furnishings. (Photo: Sherilyn Siy)

Saitama

Moomin Land

Moominvalley comes alive in this free theme park

Sherilyn Siy May 18, 2015 - 1 min read

<p>This is probably the most popular building  as it boasts of beautiful wooden floors, numerous unexpected windows, and vintage furnishings. </p>

<p>A delightfully small chair and desk right by the window almost as if the Moomin family actually live here. </p>

<p>This whimsical bench is the perfect spot to enjoy the view of the park's most popular building.</p>

<p>Moomin fans will recognize this lighthouse in the middle of a small pond.</p>

<p>One of the indoor lamps that displays attention to detail. </p>

<p>Visitors take off their shoes, preserving the gorgeous polished wood and making it a pleasure to walk through. </p>

<p>Playful art can be found throughout the forest park.</p>

For Moomin fans, the Akebono Kodomo no Mori Koen in Hanno Saitama is a must-see.

Tove Jansson's books and comics come alive in this free Moomin-themed park where you can explore the charming buildings, bridges, and whimsical art inspired by the original Finnish series.

One building even hosts a small library and exhibit about the history of the Moomins.

Moomins

Sherilyn Siy

Sherilyn Siy @sherilyn.siy

For Sherilyn Siy, Asia is home. Born in Hong Kong, Sherilyn spent time in the Philippines, China, and now lives in Japan. She speaks English, Filipino, Chinese (or putonghua), and Hokkien, her family's local dialect. Running is one of her favorite ways to explore Japan. She proudly finished the 2...