Overview
Highlighted by its mountains in the west and verdant greenery in the north and south, its easy to forget that Ome City still has quite the number of fantastic natural spaces closer to its urban spaces. Plenty of local parks, for sure, but its the impressive natural parks that really hit home. Here is an introduction to some of the parks of Ome and how to reach them.
Kaboku-en Park
Along with its absolutely gorgeous location, Kaboku-en Park stands out courtesy of its gigantic roller slide - at over two hundred metres in length, it is the sixth longest in the country. Along with its rustic landscaping, BBQ areas, a lovely collection of wooden jungle gyms for the children and some amazing nature views really make the park a must-visit.
A 15-minute drive or 25-minute no.74 bus ride from Ome Station on the JR Ome Line.
Kamanofuchi Park
As can be expected in this part of Tokyo, Kamanofuchi Park is more natural environment than the typical suburban typical park. offering some good opportunities to fish as well as a swim, the park happens to also be the home of a local museum and a centuries-old farmhouse complete with a traditional thatched roof.
A 10-minute walk from Ome Station on the JR Ome Line.
Kasumi Kyuryo Natural Park
Extending from the famous Shiofune Kannon-ji Temple, Kasaumi Kyuryo Natural Park is home to plenty of walking trails and some lovely natural views. The park's big claim to fame though are its garden beds of azaleas. When in bloom, these flowers really do add a lovely array of vibrant coluring to the area.
A 10-minute ride from Higashi-Ome Station on the JR Ome Line.
Umeno Park
One of the prime attractions of the city, Umeno Park draws in hundreds of visitors looking to marvel at the over one hundred different variety of plum variety of plum blossoms on display. Extended walking trails take visitors around the naturally landscaped park, with prime viewing spots dotted around the park.
A 14-minute walk from Hinatawada Station on the JR Ome Line.
(only for railway fanatics....)