Tsurumai Park, Nagoya

Tsurumai Park in Nagoya is a celebrated site renowned primarily for its stunning forest of cherry trees. Each year, in late March, these trees bloom in unison, painting the park in delicate pink hues that draw crowds for the traditional “Hanami” flower-watching picnics, a cherished aspect of Japanese culture. This spectacular display has earned Tsurumai Park a spot in Japan’s 100 Best Cherry Blossom Spots.

The park boasts a rich history spanning over a century. Established as the first municipal park of the newly formed city of Nagoya, it initially featured a Zoological Park inaugurated in 1918. The zoo was a lively attraction filled with the joyous sounds of children until its functions were transferred to the Higashiyama Zoological Park in 1937.

Reflecting the Meiji era trend of blending European styles with Japanese culture, Tsurumai Park harmoniously integrates both Western and Japanese elements in its gardens, structures, and overall layout. Visitors are greeted at the Front Gate by a majestic line of Himalayan Cedars, leading to a beautiful fountain and an equally impressive bandstand. The park's meticulously maintained grassy fields, planters, trees, and ponds create a serene and picturesque environment, offering a delightful escape for relaxation and recreation.

Throughout the Meiji, Taisho, Showa, and now Heisei periods, Tsurumai Park has remained a beloved destination for Nagoyans, cherished for both rest and enjoyment. In 2006, it was designated one of the 100 Japanese Historic Scenic Parks, and in 2009, it became a Registered Commemorative Asset, highlighting its historical significance.