Aichi Expo Memorial Park (Morikoro Park)

Aichi Expo Memorial Park, commonly known as Morikoro Park, is located in Nagakute City, Aichi Prefecture, on the site of the 2005 World Exposition (Expo 2005 Aichi). The exposition, themed "Nature's Wisdom", attracted over 22 million visitors and addressed environmental sustainability and technological innovation. Following the expo's conclusion, the site became a public park opening in 2006, preserving key structures and landscapes while creating recreational facilities. The park spans approximately 194 hectares, incorporating developed areas and preserved forest zones reflecting the expo's environmental focus.

The park serves as both a memorial to the 2005 World Exposition and a major green space promoting environmental awareness. Satsuki and Mei's House, a full-scale reproduction of the rural home from Studio Ghibli's "My Neighbor Totoro", was built for the expo and remains highly popular, requiring advance reservation for interior tours. The Global House, the expo's main pavilion, now functions as a visitor center and exhibition space. Forest areas maintain the satoyama landscape, a traditional Japanese ecosystem of managed woodlands supporting biodiversity and environmental education programs.

Visitors can tour Satsuki and Mei's House with guided access showcasing 1950s period details from the Totoro film. The park features cycling paths, walking trails through forests, observation towers with regional views, and large lawns for picnics. A Japanese garden, children's play areas, and ice skating rink provide year-round activities. The park hosts events including summer fireworks, autumn foliage viewing, and seasonal festivals. Free shuttle buses connect major facilities within the extensive grounds.

The park is accessible via the Linimo magnetic levitation train line, a 2005 Expo legacy. Two stations serve the park: Ai-Chikyuhaku Kinen Koen Station (main entrance) and Koen-nishi Station (west entrance). From Nagoya Station, take the Higashiyama Subway Line to Fujigaoka Station, then transfer to Linimo, with total travel time approximately 50 minutes. By car, exit the Higashimeihan Expressway at Nagakute IC. Parking accommodates approximately 1,700 vehicles at ¥500 per day.