Ohori Park | Fukuoka

Ohori Park (大濠公園, Ōhori Kōen) is a beautiful public park located in the heart of Fukuoka, Japan. Known for its large pond, lush greenery, and peaceful atmosphere, it is one of the most popular places for both locals and visitors to relax, exercise, and enjoy nature. The park is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season and provides a scenic escape from the urban bustle.

1. Overview of Ohori Park

• Location: Ohori Park is located in the Chūō-ku area of Fukuoka, close to Ohori Park Station (on the Fukuoka City Subway). It's easily accessible from Tenjin and other parts of the city.
• Size: The park covers about 39 hectares (96 acres), making it a large and spacious green space in the city. It features a central pond, walking paths, gardens, and a few cultural facilities.
• History: The park was originally created in 1929, and it was designed around a large pond that was part of the historical Fukuoka Castle moat. Over time, it has become one of Fukuoka's most beloved public parks.

2. Key Features of Ohori Park

1. Ohori Park Pond

• The main feature of Ohori Park is the large pond, which covers a significant portion of the park. It is surrounded by walking paths, creating a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere for visitors.
  • Boating: Visitors can rent pedal boats or rowboats to enjoy a relaxing time on the water, taking in the view of the surrounding park.
  • Reflection: The calm water offers a great opportunity for photos, especially during sunset or the cherry blossom season when the trees around the pond are in full bloom.

2. Japanese Garden (Fukuoka Traditional Japanese Garden)

• A beautiful Japanese garden (大濠公園日本庭園) is located in the southeastern corner of the park. It features traditional elements such as ponds, stone bridges, teahouses, and a collection of Japanese trees and plants.
  • The garden is designed to reflect the principles of Japanese landscaping, providing a peaceful and serene space for visitors to explore.
  • Admission: There is a small entrance fee for the Japanese Garden (about 200 yen), and it is a great place to take in the beauty of traditional Japanese gardens, especially during spring and autumn.

3. Walking and Jogging Paths

• Ohori Park features a large, circular walking path that encircles the pond, making it a popular spot for jogging, walking, and cycling.
  • The loop around the pond is about 2 kilometers in length, offering a scenic route for those looking to exercise while enjoying the natural beauty of the park.
  • There are also many smaller paths and trails that lead through the park's greenery, allowing visitors to explore the area at their own pace.

4. Ohori Park’s Open-Air Stage

• The park features an outdoor stage located near the pond. The Ohori Park Open-Air Stage is often used for cultural events, performances, and concerts, making it a lively part of the park.
  • The stage is often used for free performances during festivals, adding to the park's lively atmosphere during certain times of the year.

5. Fukuoka Art Museum

• Located adjacent to Ohori Park, the Fukuoka Art Museum is another key attraction. The museum houses a collection of Japanese and international art, with a particular focus on Asian art and contemporary pieces.
  • The museum is a great spot for art lovers who want to enjoy some culture while visiting the park. It also has a café where you can relax and enjoy the view of the park.

6. Children's Playground

• Ohori Park features a playground area, making it a family-friendly destination. Children can enjoy the swings, slides, and various play structures while parents relax nearby.
  • The playground is situated in a spacious area with plenty of green grass, perfect for families spending a leisurely day at the park.

7. Cherry Blossoms (Sakura)

• One of the most popular times to visit Ohori Park is during cherry blossom season in spring (usually in late March to early April). The park is known for its stunning sakura (cherry blossoms) that line the paths and surround the pond.
  • The sight of thousands of cherry blossoms in full bloom is breathtaking, and the park becomes a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) parties.
  • During this time, the park attracts many visitors who come to enjoy the flowers, picnic, and enjoy the seasonal beauty.

8. Seasonal Events

• Ohori Park hosts various seasonal events throughout the year, such as:
  • Summer festivals with fireworks displays (Hanabi Taikai) over the pond.
  • Autumn leaf-viewing events, when the park's trees turn vibrant shades of red, orange, and yellow.
  • Christmas illuminations and other festivities during the winter months.

3. Surrounding Area: Attractions Near Ohori Park

• Ohori Park is located near several other attractions in Fukuoka, making it an excellent base for exploring the city:
  • Fukuoka Castle Ruins: Just a short walk from the park, visitors can explore the ruins of Fukuoka Castle (福岡城), which was originally built in the early 1600s. The castle grounds have lovely gardens and historical ruins, offering a fascinating look into the region's history.
  • Momochi Seaside Park: A short distance away is Momochi Seaside Park, a waterfront area with beaches, restaurants, and shopping. It's a great place to relax after a visit to Ohori Park.
  • Tenjin: The Tenjin area, Fukuoka’s downtown district, is just a short subway ride away, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

4. How to Get to Ohori Park

• By Subway: The park is easily accessible from Tenjin or Hakata Station by taking the Fukuoka City Subway Kuko Line (Airport Line) to Ohori Park Station. The park is just a short walk from the subway station.
• By Bus: Several local buses stop near the park, making it easy to access from different parts of the city.
• By Taxi: A taxi from Hakata Station or Tenjin Station will take around 10–15 minutes.

5. Best Time to Visit

• Spring (March to April): For cherry blossoms, when the park is covered in beautiful sakura.
• Summer (June to August): For outdoor concerts, festivals, and a relaxed atmosphere by the pond.
• Autumn (September to November): For colorful autumn foliage, especially in the Japanese garden.
• Winter (December to February): For seasonal illuminations and a quieter, peaceful experience.

6. Admission Fees

• Ohori Park itself is free to enter and explore. However:
  • Japanese Garden: There is a small entrance fee (about 200 yen) for the Fukuoka Traditional Japanese Garden located within the park.
  • Fukuoka Art Museum: There is an entrance fee to the museum, which varies based on the exhibits.

7. Conclusion

Ohori Park is one of Fukuoka's most beloved green spaces, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty, recreational activities, and cultural attractions. Whether you're strolling around the pond, admiring the cherry blossoms, enjoying the Japanese garden, or visiting nearby museums, there is something for everyone at this iconic park. It's a peaceful retreat in the city, ideal for both locals and tourists to relax and connect with nature.