Uminonakamichi Seaside Park, located on a narrow peninsula stretching between Hakata Bay and the Genkai Sea, is one of Fukuoka’s most expansive and versatile green spaces. Spanning over 300 hectares, this national park is a paradise for nature lovers, families, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. With its stunning landscapes, diverse attractions, and year-round activities, Uminonakamichi Seaside Park offers a perfect escape from the city, allowing visitors to connect with nature and enjoy a day of relaxation and fun.
One of the park’s most striking features is its vast flower gardens, which bloom with vibrant colors throughout the year. Depending on the season, visitors can stroll through fields of cherry blossoms, tulips, roses, and sunflowers, creating a picturesque setting that attracts both amateur and professional photographers. Spring is particularly popular, as the park’s Sakura (cherry blossoms) draw crowds eager to experience hanami, the traditional Japanese practice of flower viewing.
The park also boasts a Rose Garden and a Seasonal Flower Garden, where the meticulous landscaping and design create a beautiful backdrop for a leisurely walk or a peaceful rest. The Flower Hill, covered with over 100,000 flowers in various patterns, offers panoramic views of the surrounding area, making it a must-visit spot within the park.
Uminonakamichi Seaside Park is designed with families and active visitors in mind, offering a wide range of recreational facilities. The Wonder World area is a hit with children, featuring playgrounds, a Ferris wheel, and a mini-train that tours the park. For those who enjoy cycling, the park provides rental bicycles and dedicated cycling paths, allowing visitors to explore the park’s vast grounds at their own pace.
Animal lovers will appreciate the Animal Forest, where you can interact with various animals, including capybaras, rabbits, and kangaroos. The park also has a Dolphin Lagoon, where daily shows and feeding sessions offer an up-close experience with these intelligent marine mammals.
For those seeking more active pursuits, Uminonakamichi Seaside Park offers a range of sports facilities, including tennis courts, a swimming pool, and an athletics field. The park’s expansive lawns and picnic areas make it an ideal spot for outdoor games, barbecues, and family gatherings.
Given its location on a peninsula, Uminonakamichi Seaside Park also offers access to the beach, where visitors can enjoy a variety of water activities. The Sunshine Pool complex, open during the summer months, features multiple pools, water slides, and a lazy river, providing hours of fun for kids and adults alike.
The nearby Seaside Park Beach offers a more relaxed atmosphere, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, or simply taking in the view of the Genkai Sea. The beach area is well-equipped with facilities, including showers, changing rooms, and cafes, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone.
Seasonal Events and Festivals
Throughout the year, Uminonakamichi Seaside Park hosts various events and festivals that highlight the changing seasons and the beauty of nature. The Spring Flower Festival and Autumn Flower Festival are particularly popular, attracting thousands of visitors who come to admire the park’s seasonal displays.
In the summer, the park becomes a hub of activity with outdoor concerts, food festivals, and night-time illuminations. The winter season also brings its own charm, with festive decorations and light displays transforming the park into a winter wonderland.
Access Information
Uminonakamichi Seaside Park is easily accessible from central Fukuoka:
- From Hakata Station: Take the JR Kagoshima Main Line to Kashii Station, then transfer to the JR Kashii Line and get off at Uminonakamichi Station. The park entrance is just a short walk from the station.
- From Tenjin: Take the Fukuoka City Subway to Nishitetsu Futsukaichi Station, then transfer to the Nishitetsu Kaizuka Line and get off at Uminonakamichi Station.
- By Ferry: A scenic option is to take a ferry from Hakata Port or Momochi Beach to Uminonakamichi Ferry Terminal, which offers direct access to the park.
- By Car: The park is about a 30-minute drive from central Fukuoka, with ample parking available at the park’s entrances.
With its combination of natural beauty, recreational facilities, and family-friendly attractions, Uminonakamichi Seaside Park is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Fukuoka. Whether you’re spending a leisurely day among the flowers, enjoying outdoor sports, or simply relaxing by the beach, Uminonakamichi offers something for everyone, making it a true gem of the city.
