Toyama Park (Hakoneyama District)
Toyama Park is located in the Hakoneyama district of Shinjuku, Tokyo, offering a peaceful green space that holds significant historical importance. The park occupies the former site of the Army Medical School and the notorious Unit 731 headquarters, where biological warfare experiments were conducted during World War II. Today, the park serves as a quiet memorial and recreational area, with a small monument acknowledging its dark past.
The park covers approximately 4.5 hectares and features open lawns, walking paths, and seasonal plantings that attract local residents for relaxation and exercise. Cherry blossoms bloom here in spring, making it a pleasant spot for hanami (flower viewing) away from the more crowded tourist locations. The park also includes a sports facility with tennis courts and a gymnasium managed by the Shinjuku Ward.
Visitors can explore the park's historical significance through informational plaques that provide context about the site's wartime use. The park's relatively unknown status among international tourists means it remains tranquil, offering an authentic glimpse into neighborhood life in Tokyo. Those interested in World War II history or medical history will find the location particularly meaningful.
Access to Toyama Park is convenient via the Tokyo Metro Fukutoshin Line or Toei Oedo Line at Higashi-Shinjuku Station, approximately an 8-minute walk from Exit A1. Alternatively, Shin-Okubo Station on the JR Yamanote Line is about a 10-minute walk away. The park is open year-round with no admission fee, making it an accessible destination for those exploring the Shinjuku area beyond its commercial centers.
