By Aino station one stop from Kakegawa, Shizuoka ECOPA Stadium was built for the 2002 World Cup, and now hosts music concerts, athletic events, and J-League soccer games. Behind and around the stadium there are a number of nature trails, some gentle and paved, some more challenging through thicker forest. There are also plenty of (small) animals to be seen: I saw dragonflies basking on railings, frogs jumping into a pond like kids from a pier, and a snake slithering across the path not two meters in front of me! It's a good place to get some exercise while enjoying the scenery and fresh air.
- 1 min read
ECOPA Nature Walks
A walk in the woods around a handsome stadium
By Peter Sidell
Community writer
A sculpture on the approach to the stadium
The stadium itself, with another sculpture
Just a few minutes' walk away, you're surrounded by peaceful forest
Some of the trails go up and down hills
Looking down through the tall trees
Out of the woods you find some very pleasant scenery
Here's where the frogs were jumping into the pond
Dragonflies sometimes have to take a break
A view of the stadium from a hilltop
This tranquil river runs nearby
I met this chap on the path back to the stadium
Explore nearby
Join the discussion
Iain Stanley
11 years ago
Shizuoka has much more than I thought!!
1 comment in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1How to Handle Illness Or Injury While Traveling in Japan
Planning - Sponsored -
2A Snowy Retreat at Kamenoi Hotel Tazawako, Akita
Akita - Sponsored -
3A Relaxed Mix of Sightseeing, Dining, and Shopping in Kanonji
Kagawa - Sponsored -
4Three Charms to Experience in Fukui: Zen, Taste & Adventure
Fukui - Sponsored -
5Visiting Scenic Yanagawa On the Water’s Edge
Fukuoka - Sponsored -
6Ozu Castle Town: A Sustainable Destination in Japan
Ehime - Sponsored -
7Exploring Japan Through the Seasons: Three First-Time Classic Tours
Culture -
8Aichi Prefecture: The Heart of Japan’s Umami Culture
Aichi - Sponsored -
9See Southern Japan with Kirishima As Your Gateway
Kagoshima - Sponsored -
10Adventure Travel For All In Chitose
Hokkaido
-
1Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2Bad Bunny Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour
Tokyo -
3The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
4Guide to Suica Cards
Transportation -
5Ghibli Museum: How To Get Tickets (2026 Guide)
Culture -
6Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
7March Grand Sumo Tournament (Osaka)
Osaka -
8The History of Japan: Era by Era
Culture -
9Winter in Japan: Your Seasonal Guide
Planning -
10Kawazu Cherry Blossom Festival
Shizuoka