Azumino Chihiro Park

The park spreads across forests, streams, and meadows with elevated walkways running through the landscape of the Northern Japan Alps. The grounds combine natural surroundings with a museum that displays artworks in various buildings.

The site was founded in 1997 to showcase the artistic legacy of illustrator Chihiro Iwasaki, who specialized in children's book art. His work influenced a generation of Japanese illustration.

The collection displays watercolor illustrations of children in natural settings, reflecting Japanese artistic traditions and childhood innocence. Visitors can view these works throughout the gallery spaces while experiencing how art and the surrounding landscape connect.

The paths are well-maintained and easy to follow, with clear signage in multiple languages. Good footwear is recommended, especially when wet, as the ground on natural trails can become slippery.

A special elevated corridor lifts visitors several meters above ground, allowing them to walk among tree branches. This perspective, usually reserved for birds, offers a completely different view of the forest.

Location: Matsukawa

Official opening: 1997

Website: http://chihiro-park.org

GPS coordinates: 36.41672,137.84236

Latest update: December 14, 2025 14:20