Let's explore the history at the oldest park in Japan [Nanko Park] in Shirakawa, Fukushima & relax at a hole-in-the-wall cafe [SHOZO SHIRAKAWA

  • Fukushima
  • Sightseeing
Suirakuen" in Nanhu Park
Nan-ko Park is easily accessible from Tokyo Station by Shinkansen bullet train (about 80 minutes) or Shin-Shirakawa Station by bus (about 10 minutes). Enjoy a stroll in Nan-ko Park, said to be the oldest park in Japan, built by the great historical figure "Sadanobu Matsudaira" in 1801, and feel the history, or take a rest at the stylish cafe "SHOZO SHIRAKAWA".

The oldest park in Japan, "Nanko Park

Built in 1801 by Sadanobu Matsudaira, a great historical figure and the 12th lord of the Shirakawa Domain, Nanko Park has long been a place of relaxation for local residents. Sadanobu Matsudaira built Nanko Park based on the principle of "Shi-Min Kyoyuraku," which means that both samurai and commoners could enjoy the park together. In 1924, the park was designated as "Lake Minami Park" and became a national historic site of scenic beauty. Lake Nanhu Park covers an area of 17.7 hectares and has a circumference of approximately 2 kilometers. Pine trees, cherry blossoms, and maples planted along the lakeside of Nanhu Park attract many visitors in all seasons.
A view of Nanko Park
Shirakawa Tourism and Products Association website "Shirakawa Tourism Guide" official website

Nanko Shrine, the "god of academic success and matchmaking

Nan-ko Shrine, located in Nan-ko Park, was built in 1922 under the auspices of Eiichi Shibusawa, the man whose portrait appears on the new 10,000 yen bill and who was an ardent admirer of Sadanobu Matsudaira. Nanko Shrine is dedicated to Sadanobu Matsudaira, and is also loved by the local people as a "god of academic success and matchmaking" because Sadanobu excelled in academics and was a matchmaker for many men and women.
Nanko Shrine" in Nanko Park
Official website of Nanko Shrine

Suirakuen, a facility that embodies the tradition of Japanese culture

Suirakuen Garden, located in Nanko Park, is a Japanese garden with a pond and a circular path around it, which is based on the garden philosophy of Sadanobu Matsudaira, and offers beautiful views from all directions. The name "Suirakuen" is derived from "Midori" (green), which refers to the greenery of Lake Minami and the lake water, and "Raku" (meaning "the well-loved one" in Japanese), which refers to "Raku-o" (meaning "the well-loved one" in Japanese). By the way, "Raku-o" refers to Sadanobu Matsudaira.
Located in a corner of Minamiko Park, the park includes Shorakutei, a shoin-style building where visitors can enjoy powdered green tea and monthly sweets, and Shusui-an, a Kobori Enshu-style tea house that shares the same view of the tea ceremony as Rakuo.
Suirakuen" in Nanhu Park
Shirakawa Tourism and Products Association website "Shirakawa Tourism Guide" official website

SHOZO SHIRAKAWA", a must for cafe lovers

SHOZO SHIRAKAWA, located on the lakeside of Lake Minami Park, is recommended for a break after a stroll in the park. SHOZO SHIRAKAWA is a branch of 1988 CAFÉ SHOZO, which has its main branch in Nasushiobara City, Tochigi Prefecture, and is well known in the cafe world. The interior of SHOZO SHIRAKAWA has a natural "wood" feel, creating a fashionable space that blends in with the lakeside scenery.
SHOZO SHIRAKAWA" in Nan-ko Park

We recommend "Cafe Latte" and "Scone Plate"!

The café latte brewed by an espresso machine, which is only available at SHOZO SHIRAKAWA, is a recommended item that can only be enjoyed at SHOZO SHIRAKAWA. The scone plate with SHOZO SHIRAKAWA's special scones on it is also a superb dish. First, enjoy the taste of the scone itself by eating it as it is. After that, I changed the flavor with whipped cream and sweet and sour jam, and they were gone in no time at all. The magic of SHOZO Cafe is that you end up staying longer than you intended to take a break.
SHOZO SHIRAKAWA's Cafe Latte
SHOZO SHIRAKAWA's scone plate
Official website of SHOZO COFFEE

Why don't you spend your next holiday relaxing at "Nanko Park"?

Nan-ko Park" in Fukushima's Shirakawa, the closest Tohoku area to the Tokyo metropolitan area, is a must-visit spot for history buffs and café lovers. How about a "short trip south Tohoku" using the convenient and comfortable Tohoku Shinkansen to and from the park?

Let's combine your favorite train and lodging to save money!

You can make your own original trip!

JR East View Dynamic Rail Package is a variable-price individual travel product available only on the web, allowing you to choose your train and accommodations freely and make a reservation at once. Depending on the timing and conditions of your reservation, you may be able to save even on the day of departure at the earliest! We also offer one-day trip plans! Enjoy your own unique trip according to your schedule and purpose.

Click here for details

For train + accommodation reservations in the Fukushima area, please use the JR East View Dynamic Rail Package.
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