Today we headed to Hanegi Park, where Mila and her friends enjoyed running around and getting lost in a very cool yellow maze. Hanegi Park is one of the many unique children’s parks in Tokyo and can be enjoyed by adults too. The park is over 100 years old and home to over 650 plum (ume) trees, which are in bloom right now. Gorgeous doesn’t even begin to describe how beautiful plum blossoms are. I took a few quick snaps of the plum blossoms and envisioned myself sitting under a tree to write a Haiku. Reality sunk in and I quickly realized the kids were much more interested in the play areas then me living out my best life.
Play Areas:
We first headed to the main play area – conveniently located across from the parking lot. This play area has swings, slides, a sandbox area, jungle gym, a large sphere that rotates, and plenty of running space, the perfect place for toddlers to enjoy.
We then moved to another play area a short distance from the first play area. We ran through a yellow maze, went through colorful bars, tried to slide down a concrete slide with rocks and of course mama always gets nervous around these concrete slides.
Lastly, we walked past the adventure playground where children can play with knives, climb onto roofs, and even light fires. With the motto of “playing freely at your own risk” by lifting the prohibited items in the park according to specific rules, the purpose is to play outdoors using your body and head and develop your independence and creativity. Parents take their children here as a way to teach them how to use the tools. We didn’t explore this area much as we will look forward to it on our next visit.
Interesting Facts & Tips
- Hanegi Park operates under the philosophy that children are better to play freely than be restricted by safety.
- Bring a change of clothes for kids.
- Bathrooms and diaper changing stations available
- Free entrance to the park
- Parking available, but the lot is small; come early
- Japan Map Code 543 629 *55
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