Nakamachi Park - Hokkaido

Nakamachi Park (中町公園) is one of the parks located in the heart of the town of Biei. It is located at 4 Chome-2 Nakamachi in the town of Biei in Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Nakamachi Park

Nakamachi Park Details

Winter

Nakamachi Park offers a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to explore the town's charm. Although it may be small, covering just 0.5 hectares, the park is home to a unique piece of history and serves as a perfect spot for relaxation and a leisurely stroll.

Nakamachi Park - Biei town, Hokkaido Prefecture

The standout feature of Nakamachi Park is the 9600 Series Steam Locomotive (No. 49600), a beautifully preserved piece of Japan's railway history. This vintage locomotive, dating back to the early 20th century, offers a fascinating glimpse into the past. Visitors can admire the craftsmanship and intricate details of the steam engine, making it a great photo opportunity and a must-see for train enthusiasts.

Nakamachi Park in Winter

中町公園

There's nothing much to do in the park during winter

While the park is small, it provides a serene environment, perfect for a short walk or a peaceful break during your exploration of Biei. The quiet surroundings, combined with the scenic views of the town, make it an ideal place to pause, relax, and enjoy the fresh air.

Photos of the 9600 Series Steam Locomotive (No. 49600)

Nakamachi Park is centrally located, making it a great starting point or stopping spot as you explore Biei. It’s just 350 meters from the Four Seasons Tower and the Misora Museum and Observatory, two attractions that offer panoramic views and fascinating exhibits. The park is also only 550 meters from the Biei Roadside Station “Oka-no-Kura”, where visitors can shop for local products and enjoy regional delicacies. If you're arriving by train, the Biei JR Station is just 750 meters away, and the culturally significant Biei Shrine is about 1 kilometer from the park.

Team Nicerio visits Nakamachi Park

My family and I visited Nakamachi Park for the first time last March 21, 2023, during our Vernal Equinox Road Trip. It was my 505th day here in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. Nakamachi Park wasn’t in our original itinerary, but we were intrigued upon seeing the preserved 9600 Series Steam Locomotive (No. 49600), so we decided to check it out. Since it was late winter, it was a challenge looking for a parking spot in the park, so I parked at one of the parking spaces of Biei Municipal Hospital. The park was covered in snow when we visited, and even the steam locomotive was half buried in snow. Regardless, it made our visit a little fun as my daughter and I got to play in the snow in the park. Hopefully, we get to revisit Nakamachi Park in summer and see what the park would look like with the beautiful green foliage.

Nakamachi Park Admission Fee

It’s FREE to enter and explore Nakamachi Park.

Nakamachi Park Operating Hours

Nakamachi Park is open 24/7.

Why visit Nakamachi Park?

Whether you're taking a leisurely break, enjoying the steam locomotive exhibit, or just looking for a quiet spot to rest while exploring the sights of Biei, Nakamachi Park’s convenient location makes it a nice stop for tourists looking to discover the heart of this charming town.

Getting to Nakamachi Park

 

To get to Nakamachi Park in Biei from Asahikawa Station, follow these steps:

Train Ride to Biei Station

Take a JR Furano Line train bound for Furano from Asahikawa Station.

The journey to Biei Station takes approximately 30 minutes.

Walk or Take a Taxi to Nakamachi Park

From Biei Station, Nakamachi Park is about a 10-minute walk. Exit the station, head south along Nakamachi Street, and you’ll find the park easily.

Alternatively, if you prefer not to walk, you can take a short taxi ride from the station.

Make sure to check the train schedule ahead of time, as Furano Line trains may have limited departures depending on the time of day.

Ratings

Crowd

Cleanliness

Overall rating