Oyamadairi Park

A great walk amongst wildlife

Daniel Vesey Jun 15, 2015 - 2 min read

<p>A man made pond with some interesting trees growing out</p>

<p>The observation deck of the pond, which has notice boards to show you all of the wildlife living there</p>

<p>A curious baby turtle came to say hello</p>

<p>A carp came over keen to get photographed</p>

<p>One of the many flowers throughout the park</p>

<p>A lovely blue hydrangea in the sunshine </p>

<p>One of the many paths to walk down</p>

<p>A place to relax and get refreshments </p>

Oyamadairi Park is a great place for a walk, bike ride, or picnic to enjoy a tranquil atmosphere and listen to the sounds of nature. An artificial pond boasts much wildlife, from carp and many insects to turtles swimming away. It is an ideal place to go for some peace and quiet, away from busy life so often associated with Tokyo.

While staying at Oakhouse Social Residence Sagamihara I decided to explore the surrounding areas and look for parks to visit. Upon walking up some wooden stairs in a forest-like atmosphere, I bumped into a Japanese man who showed me the pond I was seeking out. I have only been in Japan for a few days now, but I have found the people exceptionally kind and friendly. I told him that it was OK to just point out the direction to me, but he insisted on taking time out of his day to walk me down to the exact spot. He told me he was in the park to photograph wild mushrooms, then bid me goodbye and wished my stay in Japan to be a pleasant one.

The pond was a funny experience, where all the carp seemed to take an interest in me and my camera, swimming close to get a closer look; perhaps they thought I had some food for them. Turtles, including little baby ones, came swimming over too. One was especially cute, dipping his head up towards my lens as if to say 'Get me in too!'.

Afterwards I walked around the park, listening to the diegetic sounds of nature and seeing many locals enjoy what I too was enjoying. The park is very spacious, making it a great place for a stroll. It is within a few minutes' walk from Tamasakai station on the Keiō Sagamihara Line.

Daniel Vesey @daniel.vesey

I graduated from University of Hertfordshire in the UK in 2014, with a 2:1 in Mass Communications. I have since worked in China for a Media and PR Company as a writer and photographer and also as a foreign editor for a English website for the expatriate community in Guangzhou. I am a big fan of t...