Located about a 10-minute drive from JR Hakodate Station, Hakodate Park Kodomo no Kuni is famous for having Japan's oldest Ferris wheel. Amidst the Showa retro boom, it's gaining new attention as a photogenic spot, with many of its original attractions still in operation. This article will introduce the charms of Hakodate Park Kodomo no Kuni.

The amusement park Kodomo no Kuni, which opened within Hakodate Park in May 1956, currently features 16 types of attractions, small rides, and a game corner, with free admission. Many of the facilities have been in operation for nearly 70 years since its opening, but their safety is guaranteed through daily inspections, regular maintenance, and an annual nationally designated inspection. Another great point is that most rides have no age or height restrictions, and even the ones that look like thrill rides are actually quite gentle.

The merry-go-round, present since the park's opening. Its design has remained almost unchanged.

The Sky Chairs, also in operation since the opening. It rotates at a moderate speed, making it enjoyable even for children.

The "APOLLO 2000" attraction is one of the more thrilling rides in the park, swinging back and forth significantly.

This super-compact Ferris wheel is 10 meters high and completes one rotation in about 3 minutes and 45 seconds. It was originally installed in 1954 in Onuma Quasi-National Park in the neighboring town of Nanae and was moved to its current location in 1965. In 2019, it was registered as a National Tangible Cultural Property and is known as the oldest existing Ferris wheel in Japan. Compared to the typical capsule-style gondolas, its design is quite open. It sways when the wind blows, and the ride to the top is surprisingly thrilling.

Attraction tickets, "Kodomo no Kuni Kippu," are 350 yen for one, 2,500 yen for a set of eight, and 2,800 yen for a free pass. One ticket is required per ride.

It features eight bench-style gondolas, a rare sight in Japan.

The wheel pauses each time passengers get on and off. The incredible sense of openness is an experience you won't find anywhere else.

Reaching the 10-meter peak. To the right, you can catch a slight glimpse of the Tsugaru Strait.

Hakodate City is one of the most historic cities in Hokkaido, and Hakodate Park, a place of relaxation for its citizens, is full of highlights! As a precious place that still retains its original appearance, the park itself is designated as a Registered Monument (Place of Scenic Beauty) of Japan. It is also known as a famous spot for cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in fall, so why not stop by when you visit Hakodate?

Hakodate Park, where Kodomo no Kuni is located, was opened in 1879 at the beginning of the Meiji era and is Hokkaido's first Western-style park. It spans about 4.8 hectares in Aoyagi-cho, Hakodate, which is slightly larger than the Tokyo Dome (4.7 hectares). The park grounds feature historical elements like the Former Hakodate Museum, a Tangible Cultural Property of Hokkaido, and Hokkaido's first Western-style stone bridge, as well as a zoo. It's a spot where both adults and children can have fun all day long.

A bamboo grove of Moso bamboo, rare in Hokkaido. It reportedly started with just seven stalks when the park opened.

The animal facility houses various animals such as goats, peacocks, swans, and guinea pigs.

The Hakodate City Museum, opened in 1966.

Materials related to natural sciences, archaeology, history, and ethnology are on display. Recommended for fans of the Bakumatsu period, including the Boshin War and the Shinsengumi.

The view from the observatory is excellent, and the faint sea breeze feels pleasant.

Hakodate Park Kodomo no Kuni

■Location: 17-4 Aoyagi-cho, Hakodate, Hokkaido
■Hours: Weekdays: 10:30-16:00 / Saturdays, Sundays, Holidays: 10:00-16:00
■Fees Admission: Free
1 Ticket: 350 yen
Value Ticket Pack (8 tickets): 2,500 yen
1-Day Free Pass: 2,800 yen
*One ticket is required per ride.
*Children aged 0 and 1 are free, but the accompanying person must have a ticket.
■Closed: Late November to mid-March
Click here for details and map of Hakodate Park Kodomo no Kuni

Check these out too!