Notice how the colors of the leaves change with the seasons in this gorgeous urban park with water features, a sports complex and temple shrines.
With its range of exotic vegetation and floral displays, Chiba Park is a scenic set of gardens brightening up the city center. It has sports fields, a children’s playground and a vast pond where you can take out a rowboat. Visit the park in fall to see the colorful hues of the changing leaves.
In early spring, the rosy petals of the cherry blossom trees begin to flourish, before falling and covering the park’s grassy hills in a layer of light pink. A few weeks later stroll on the boardwalk along the picturesque lotus pond and look for the Oga lotus flowers. Colorful azaleas and irises bloom in late spring as well.
In autumn, the park’s appearance changes dramatically. View the oranges, yellows and reds of the fall leaves on the momiji and gingko trees.
Bring your kids to frolic in the playground, which has large square blocks and a climbing frame with slides and swings. Go on a pleasant stroll through the woodland sections of the park, taking in the serenity of this leafy haven in central Chiba.
Take the whole family on a rowboat ride on the shimmering surface of Watauchi Pond, which has a covering of cherry blossom petals in late spring. You can also walk out onto the water along the charming wooden pier for excellent views of the surrounding gardens.
Watch a game at the Chiba Park Baseball Field on the north side of the park. A horse racecourse and large swimming pool are near the field. Marking the site’s western border is the tranquil Chibakengokoku Shrine, with its crisscrossing roof design. Head to the park’s far southeastern corner for the Shinto Shrine.
Find Chiba Park in the heart of the city, a short walk north of the Chiba railway station. Take the Chiba Monorail line to the Chibakoen Station along the eastern side of the park. Explore the area for other nearby sights such as the Chiba City Civic Hall, the Flower Capital Chiba Monument and the Chiba LOOK live music venue.
