Okuyama Ameyama Nature Park was constructed in July, 1984, and is a forest park that spans over an area of 130 hectares. The park includes Eiraku Dam, which was constructed in March, 1968. The dam lake makes for great walks along the water, and offers stunning views from above. The forest park has been selected as one of the top “100 Green Sceneries of Osaka” for its lush natural views. Visitors come throughout the year to witness the changing seasons of the park.
Try Forest Bathing & Hiking at Okuyama Ameyama Nature Park
Located in the town of Kumatori, Okuyama Ameyama Nature Park has a range of hiking courses ideal for all ages and abilities. Whether you are a total beginner or a veteran hiker, the range of courses available will give any visitor the chance to get away from the city with ease.
An Introduction to Okuyama Ameyama Nature Park
Cherry blossoms at Eiraku Dam.
The Hiking Trails
Beautiful scenery while hiking in Okuyama Ameyama Nature Park.
There are five hiking courses available at Okuyama Ameyama Nature Park: “The Maple Square Course,” “The Forest Bathing Course,” “The Observatory Course,” “The East Hiking Course,” and “The West Hiking Course.” The courses range in total distance of between one to two kilometers, one-way. Two observatories are located in the park, which offers stunning views of Eiraku Dam and the Izumi Katsuragi Mountains. On a clear day, visitors can also see Osaka Bay, including Kansai International Airport and Awaji Island, connected to the city of Kobe by the Akashi Kaikyo Bridge, the world’s longest suspension bridge, which spans a distance of about four kilometers.
The park was once full of Japanese red pine and black pine trees, but in recent years it has become a mixed forest with vegetation such as the Ubame, Konara, and ring-cupped oaks. In addition, there are around 1,000 cherry blossom trees located in the park, the majority of which are positioned around the lake close to Eiraku Dam. Maple trees have also been introduced into the area, giving a fantastic coat of red, orange, and yellow during autumn months. Wildlife spotters may also find a large variety of birds within the park. Squirrels have also been seen, though they are quite rare. Boars also frequent the park area, and tracks are frequently visible.
Cherry blossoms in full bloom around the lake and Eiraku Dam.
It is recommended that visitors enjoy “The West Hiking Course” during spring to view the cherry blossoms in full bloom, and “The East Hiking Course” and “The Observatory Course” in fall to view the stunning autumn colors, and clear views of the surrounding areas.
Enjoy Nearby Hot Spots
The largest slide in Osaka Prefecture!
Eiraku Yumenomori Park is nearby Okuyama Ameyama Nature Park. The area is perfect for families wishing to relax instead of hike. Children are able to play in the wide open space, with the playground offering varying activities such as a bouncy hill and a large slide. There is an information center, as well as vending machines and restrooms. Visitors can enjoy a light walk instead of a hike on the park’s short walking paths. Extreme sports fanatics can also make use of the nearby skateboard park.
Taste the flavor of fresh-picked berries.
Head over to Wadayama Berry Park for some blueberry picking. Visitors can enjoy an all-you-can-eat program for fresh-picked blueberries. The farm offers a large variety of rabbiteye blueberries, all with unique flavors and characteristics. The name is derived from the way the berries change color from pink to red as the fruit matures, akin to the eye of a rabbit. The trees are relatively large and can reach a height of three to four meters. Branches and leaves typically grow from March, with white and pink flowers blooming between late April and mid-May. Fruits mature between July and September with a diameter of up to two centimeters, and typically weigh up to two grams. Flavors vary depending on the berry, but profiles range from sour to sweet.
To take part in the blueberry picking experience, reservations are required one week in advance. The experiences are available twice a day, from 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., and last about two hours.
To take part in the blueberry picking experience, reservations are required at least one week in advance. The experiences are available twice a day, from 10 a.m. and 1 p.m., and last about two hours.
The campsite at the Outdoor Activity Fureai Hiroba.
There is also a nearby facility called Outdoor Activity Fureai Hiroba, an area that offers camping spots from ¥200 – ¥600 per night, and tent rentals for ¥800 per night. It is another great spot to enjoy the beauty of nature with hiking and orienteering.
It is recommended that visitors to Okuyama Ameyama Nature Park come by car. Parking spaces are available at Wadayama Berry Park for the blueberry picking and camping experiences, and in front of Eiraku Yumenomori Park for the family friendly playground and nearby hiking courses.
Visitors coming by public transport may take a bus from JR Kumatori Station and alight at Eiraku Yumenomori Park bus stop.
For information on an experiential tour of Wadayama Blueberry Park, contact the Senshu Japan Concierge Team.