Hiraike Green Park
Hira-ike Green Park surrounds one of Wakayama Prefecture's largest ponds, offering a tranquil natural retreat in Kinokawa City. The park serves as a wildlife sanctuary where precious aquatic plants thrive and various waterfowl and migratory birds make their home throughout the year. Local residents frequently visit for walks and nature observation, with regular sightings of cranes, tortoises, and ducks around the water's edge.
The park's main attraction occurs from late June to early July, when Vietnam lotus and Oga lotus flowers bloom in bright pink across the pond's surface. These lotus displays are best viewed in the early morning hours when the flowers are fully open. The surrounding parkland is also home to ancient burial mounds (kofun), providing a glimpse into the region's historical past. These earthen tombs date back centuries and reflect the area's archaeological significance.
Visitors to Hira-ike Green Park can enjoy leisurely walks along the pond's perimeter, wildlife watching, and photography opportunities, particularly during lotus season. The park's natural setting makes it popular for peaceful outdoor recreation away from urban areas. During winter months, Kinokawa City Council installs illumination displays around the pond, transforming the park into an evening attraction.
Tickets must be purchased with cash as IC cards are not accepted on this line. A one-day pass costs ¥800 for adults and ¥400 for children, providing good value for round-trip travel. Single tickets from Wakayama to Kishi Station cost ¥410 one way. Wakayama Station is accessible from Osaka in approximately 90 minutes by train.
The park is located a short walk from Kishi Station, the terminus of the Wakayama Electric Railway's Kishigawa Line. Kishi Station itself has gained international fame as home to cat stationmaster Nitama (the second generation following the legendary Tama), making it easy to combine a visit to the park with this unique railway attraction. The station is approximately 14.3 kilometers from Wakayama Station, with the journey taking around 30 minutes. From Wakayama Station, take the Kishigawa Line from Platform 9 to Kishi Station. The park is within walking distance of the station.
