Did you know that there is a vast park in Abira Town, spanning approximately 32 hectares? This is Abira Town Shika Park, Japan's oldest Health and Recreation Forest. Known affectionately by locals as "Shika Park" (Deer Park), we decided to look into what a Health and Recreation Forest is and why it's called Shika Park.

Abira Town Shika Park (hereafter Shika Park) was designated as a Health and Recreation Forest in 1902. A Protection Forest is a forest designated by the Minister of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries or a prefectural governor to achieve specific public objectives. These are further classified into 17 types, among which Health and Recreation Forests serve roles such as providing a place for forest recreation, air purification, and noise reduction.
This might seem like a lengthy explanation, but as for why Shika Park was chosen as the oldest Health and Recreation Forest, the reason is actually not clear. Apparently, the national ledger only states 'Unknown' for the purpose of designation, which feels a bit anticlimactic.

(Photo courtesy of Abira Town)

Nevertheless, it is wonderful to think that because it was designated as a Health and Recreation Forest at such an early stage, this vast expanse of nature has been passed down to the present day. It is still carefully managed as a primeval forest with over 100 species of trees, delighting visitors with its different expressions as the seasons change.

(Photo courtesy of Abira Town)

Incidentally, the name Shika Park (Deer Park) comes from the establishment of a "Deer Farm" in 1971. Initially, they raised one male and one female Ezo sika deer. The Ezo sika deer zone is very popular with children, and the park also has a dog run, an athletic playground, a park golf course, and a campsite.
The water lilies that bloom in summer are also well-known, and during the season, many people can be seen taking pictures.

(Photo courtesy of Abira Town)

People visit Shika Park for various reasons: to see the cute Ezo sika deer, to let their dogs run free, to capture the beautiful nature in photos, or to enjoy a weekend of camping with their family.

(Photo courtesy of Abira Town)

Come to think of it, this park has been enriching people's hearts as a Health and Recreation Forest since the Meiji era.

Even without a special purpose, just by visiting on a whim and taking a leisurely walk along the path through the woods, you are sure to feel a pleasant sense of openness.

＜Abira Town Shika Park＞
Location: 2-1 Oiwake Shirakaba, Abira Town, Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido
Contact: 0145-25-4488 (On-site Management Office)

＜With cooperation from＞
Abira Town Office
Location: 95 Hayakita Omachi, Abira Town, Yufutsu-gun, Hokkaido
Contact: 0145-29-7075 (Abira Town Office, Construction Division, Civil Engineering and Parks Group)