Honbetsu Park - Hokkaido

Honbetsu Park (本別公園), also called Yoshitsune-no-Sato Honbetsu Park (義経の里本別公園), is a vast public park in the town of Honbetsu. It is located at Higashimachi in the town of Hombetsu, Nakagawa District, Hokkaido Prefecture, Japan.

Honbetsu Park

Honbetsu Park Details

Honbetsu Park, a sprawling 26-hectare natural haven in Hokkaido, is a must-visit destination for nature lovers, history enthusiasts, and families seeking a perfect outdoor escape. The park is steeped in the romantic legend of Yoshitsune, offering visitors not just breathtaking scenery but also a journey into local folklore.

Honbetsu Park - Honbetsu town, Hokkaido Prefecture

A Springtime Spectacle: Azaleas and Cherry Blossoms

Springtime at Honbetsu Park is truly magical. The park is home to 16,000 Siberian purple azaleas and 2,000 Siberian wild cherry trees, which bloom simultaneously to create a spectacular sea of color. This seasonal spectacle makes it one of the most picturesque spots in Hokkaido, ideal for photography, leisurely strolls, and immersive nature walks.

Honbetsu Park Area Map

You can find several colored manhole covers here

Facilities and Activities for Everyone

Honbetsu Park features a variety of facilities to enhance your visit. The “Yoshitsune no Yakata” rest area offers a cozy spot to relax, while the “Yoshitsune no Sato Gosho” provides comfortable accommodation for overnight stays. Active visitors can enjoy wooden athletic facilities, a campsite, a park golf course, go-karting, and boating, making it an exciting destination for families and adventure seekers alike.

武蔵坊弁慶 - Musashibō Benkei

源義経 - Minamoto no Yoshitsune

Kabuto Pond

Kabuto Pond

Yoshitsune's Mansion

Yoshitsune's Mansion

Inside Yoshitsune's Mansion

Discover Yoshitsune’s Legendary Sites

For history enthusiasts, the park offers a unique opportunity to explore sites connected to the legendary Yoshitsune, allowing visitors to combine recreation with a cultural and historical experience.

Team Nicerio visits Honbetsu Park

My family and I visited Honbetsu Park for the first time on November 5, 2023, the third day of our three-day Culture Day Road Trip. This also marked my 734th day in Japan as an ALT under the JET Programme. We spent our time strolling through its scenic paths and taking photos of the beautiful surroundings. While we wished we could try all the park’s facilities, our busy itinerary meant we had to focus on enjoying the peaceful atmosphere and the stunning views.

Honbetsu Park Admission Fee

Parking, entry, and exploring Honbetsu Park are completely FREE. The park offers convenient parking for 100 cars and 5 buses, making it easy to visit for both small groups and larger tour parties. However, it’s a good idea to bring some cash if you plan to enjoy the park’s paid activities, such as go-karting or swan boat rides.

Honbetsu Park Operating Hours

Honbetsu Park is open 24/7, but please note that it is closed during winter (January to March), so plan your visit during the warmer months to fully enjoy its natural beauty and activities.

Why Visit Honbetsu Park?

Honbetsu Park offers a perfect Hokkaido getaway, where you can admire seasonal blooms, enjoy outdoor sports, and immerse yourself in local legend. There’s truly something for everyone to enjoy. 

Getting to Honbetsu Park

 

From Obihiro Station, head out to Platform 7 of the Obihiro Bus Terminal and board the #17 Obihiro Rikubetsu Line operated by the Tokachi Bus Company. 

Board down at Honbetsu Kita 2-chome bus stop and walk about 900 meters to Honbetsu Shrine.

Travel time: 1 hour and 54 minutes

Fare: 1,350 yen

Ratings

Crowd

Cleanliness

Overall rating