{"id":1771,"date":"2025-11-27T17:31:36","date_gmt":"2025-11-27T08:31:36","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/spot\/what-is-ono-kannon-hall-_copied\/"},"modified":"2026-04-06T22:36:15","modified_gmt":"2026-04-06T13:36:15","slug":"kannonuma-forest-park","status":"publish","type":"spot","link":"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/spot\/kannonuma-forest-park\/","title":{"rendered":"Kannonuma Forest Park"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_76 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\"><\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/spot\/kannonuma-forest-park\/#What_is_Kannonuma_Forest_Park\" >What is Kannonuma Forest Park?<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/spot\/kannonuma-forest-park\/#Highlight_of_Kannonuma_Forest_Park\" >Highlight of Kannonuma Forest Park<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/spot\/kannonuma-forest-park\/#How_to_Enjoy_Recommended_Activities\" >How to Enjoy \/ Recommended Activities<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/spot\/kannonuma-forest-park\/#Basic_Information\" >Basic Information<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/spot\/kannonuma-forest-park\/#Access\" >Access<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/spot\/kannonuma-forest-park\/#Nearby_Accommodations\" >Nearby Accommodations<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"what-is-kannonuma-forest-park\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"What_is_Kannonuma_Forest_Park\"><\/span><strong>What is Kannonuma Forest Park?<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Kannonuma Forest Park in Shimogo Town, Fukushima Prefecture, is a natural park woven from the rich forests and lakes of the Minamiaizu region. Kannonuma Lake, at the park&#8217;s center, is believed to have formed over long ages through the erosion of lava created by the eruption of Mount K\u014dshikidake approximately 17,000 years ago. Located at an elevation of about 900 meters, it offers views of the surrounding mountain ranges. It is also known as a treasure trove for wild birds, allowing visitors to enjoy the luxury of listening to birdsong.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The area around Kannon Pond, developed as a forest park in 1985, was once considered a remote wilderness due to its difficult access. However, the opening of National Route 289 (K\u014dshi Road) in 2008 transformed it into a tourist route connecting Shirakawa to Minamiaizu, quickly making it a popular spot renowned for its autumn foliage.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Floating islands dot the lake&#8217;s perimeter, reflecting the scenery of all four seasons on its surface. On the lakeshore stands the Takekannon Hall, said to have been built by the Heian-period military commander Sakanoue no Tamuramaro to mourn those who fell during his eastern campaigns. Inside the hall, constructed in the Tang-style h\u014dgy\u014d-zukuri architecture, intricate carvings adorn the interior. The park&#8217;s name, \u201cKannon,\u201d originates from this hall.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-style-vk-image-photoFrame\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/DSC02237-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-1778\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/DSC02237-1024x683.webp 1024w, https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/DSC02237-768x512.webp 768w, https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/DSC02237-1536x1024.webp 1536w, https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/DSC02237-2048x1366.webp 2048w, https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/DSC02237-1x1.webp 1w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<div class=\"spot-middle-banner-image\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/12\/DSC02234-scaled.webp\"\/><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"highlight-of-kannonuma-forest-park\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Highlight_of_Kannonuma_Forest_Park\"><\/span>Highlight of <strong>Kannonuma Forest Park<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Kannonuma Forest Park is a treasure trove for nature observation, offering the enjoyment of seasonal flowers and wild birds throughout the year. In spring, weeping cherry trees and double-flowered cherry trees planted within the park bloom, while the aquatic plant Mitsugashiwa, said to be a survivor from the Ice Age, blooms with delicate white flowers along the lakeshore. Rhododendrons and skunk cabbage also bloom in the park.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In early summer, lush new greenery surrounds the marsh, while cottongrass and yellow irises sway in the wind across the wetlands. The chirping of wild birds echoes throughout the park, attracting many visitors specifically for birdwatching. The higher elevation provides a relatively cool climate for pleasant strolls.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Autumn foliage is especially renowned here, with maple and mountain ash trees turning vibrant reds and yellows, mirrored vividly on the marsh&#8217;s surface like a mirror. Peak viewing occurs from mid-October to early November, with the mist-shrouded mornings offering particularly ethereal scenes. The park features viewing points and grassy plazas where you can relax on benches while enjoying the foliage. Walking along the paths covered in fallen leaves feels like strolling on a red carpet\u2014a luxurious experience unique to this season.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In winter, the \u201cKanjiki Walk\u201d offers snowshoeing through the deep snow-covered forest amidst the quiet of a snowy landscape. During this time, you can also see Lake Kannon frozen over.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><br><\/p>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-liquid-speech-balloon liquid-speech-balloon-wrap liquid-speech-balloon-00\"><div class=\"liquid-speech-balloon-avatar\"><\/div><div class=\"liquid-speech-balloon-text\"><p>The park&#8217;s nine walking trails, stretching a total of approximately 3.2 km around the perimeter, offer the appeal of being able to choose based on the season and your purpose. The lakeside loop course is about 1.2 km with minimal elevation changes, making it easy for families and seniors to stroll without strain. <\/p><div class=\"liquid-speech-balloon-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"how-to-enjoy-recommended-activities\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"How_to_Enjoy_Recommended_Activities\"><\/span><strong>How to Enjoy \/ Recommended Activities<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When visiting Kannonzuma Forest Park, we recommend planning to spend about half a day leisurely enjoying nature. It&#8217;s about a 3-minute walk from the parking lot to the park entrance, and the lakeside loop course takes about an hour to complete. During the autumn foliage season, the park gets crowded and the parking lot may fill up early in the morning, so arriving early is recommended.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>First, choose one of the nine walking courses that suits you. Adjust your pace based on your stamina and schedule\u2014take about 30 minutes to circle the lake or an hour to walk around the entire park. Exploring all nine trails takes about an hour and a half. Listen to the birdsong while enjoying the floating islands and reflections on the lake surface.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>After circling the lake, extend your walk to the \u201cViewing Platform\u201d or \u201cObservation Deck.\u201d The \u201cViewing Platform\u201d overlooks the marsh, while the \u201cObservation Deck\u201d offers sweeping views of the mountains behind, making it a prime spot for autumn foliage and snowy landscapes. The Takekannon Hall on the west shore is open for exterior viewing. Its Tang-style carvings and architecture showcase the beauty of Japanese religious architecture. History buffs will find it even more rewarding to research tales associated with Sakanoue no Tamuramaro before visiting.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>If time permits, extend your visit to nearby attractions. At the roadside station \u201cShimogo\u201d along National Route 289, savor local delicacies like handmade soba noodles and Aizu chicken rice bowls, and shop for woodcrafts and regional specialties.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-liquid-speech-balloon liquid-speech-balloon-wrap liquid-speech-balloon-00\"><div class=\"liquid-speech-balloon-avatar\"><\/div><div class=\"liquid-speech-balloon-text\"><p> Within a 15- to 30-minute drive, you&#8217;ll find unique South Aizu attractions like the natural rock formations of \u201cT\u014d no Hetsuri\u201d and the traditional thatched-roof houses lining \u201c\u014cuchi-juku.\u201d Planning a tour of these spots will make for a more fulfilling trip.<\/p><div class=\"liquid-speech-balloon-arrow\"><\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"basic-information\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Basic_Information\"><\/span><strong>Basic Information<\/strong><span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Open hours\u30fbClosed days:<\/strong>\uff1a9:00 AM to 4:30 PM (Open year-round)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"access\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Access\"><\/span>Access<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<iframe src=\"https:\/\/www.google.com\/maps\/embed?pb=!1m14!1m8!1m3!1d3173.322538777353!2d139.8898734!3d37.3111869!3m2!1i1024!2i768!4f13.1!3m3!1m2!1s0x601ffb089aa580a1%3A0x55aa1175ec815dfc!2z5rmv6YeO5LiK5rip5rOJ5bCP6YeO6Kaz6Z-z5aCC!5e0!3m2!1sen!2sjp!4v1765440915556!5m2!1sen!2sjp\" width=\"600\" height=\"450\" style=\"border:0;\" allowfullscreen=\"\" loading=\"lazy\" referrerpolicy=\"no-referrer-when-downgrade\"><\/iframe>\n\n\n\n<p>Address: 386 Dogo-ko, Yunokami, Shimogo Town, Minamiaizu District, Fukushima Prefecture<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Admission Fee: Free<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Access:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>By Car: Approximately 70 minutes from Shirakawa IC on the Tohoku Expressway via National Route 289. Approximately 1 hour from Aizu-Wakamatsu IC on the Ban-etsu Expressway.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>By Train: 10 minutes by car from Aizu Railway Yoshi Park Station, or take the town bus and get off at \u201cKannon-numa Entrance\u201d.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"nearby-accommodations\"><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"Nearby_Accommodations\"><\/span>Nearby Accommodations<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n\n\n<div class=\"ryokan-cards\"><div class=\"ryokan-card\">\n            <a class=\"ryokan-card__link\" href=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/ryokan\/chitose\/\">\n                <figure class=\"ryokan-card__thumbnail\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DSC01605-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"Chitose &#8211; Hinano Inn-\"\/><\/figure>\n                <div class=\"ryokan-card__titleset\">\n                    <div class=\"ryokan-card__title-wrapper\">\n                        <span class=\"ryokan-card__title\">Chitose &#8211; Hinano Inn-<\/span>\n                        <p class=\"ryokan-card__area-info\">Niigata Prefecture<\/p>\n                    <\/div><ul class=\"ryokan-card__tag-list\"><\/ul><\/div>\n            <\/a>\n        <\/div><div class=\"ryokan-card\">\n            <a class=\"ryokan-card__link\" href=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/ryokan\/tamakiya\/\">\n                <figure class=\"ryokan-card__thumbnail\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DSC01216-scaled-1-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"Sake Inn -Tamakiya-\"\/><\/figure>\n                <div class=\"ryokan-card__titleset\">\n                    <div class=\"ryokan-card__title-wrapper\">\n                        <span class=\"ryokan-card__title\">Sake Inn -Tamakiya-<\/span>\n                        <p class=\"ryokan-card__area-info\">Niigata Prefecture<\/p>\n                    <\/div><ul class=\"ryokan-card__tag-list\"><\/ul><\/div>\n            <\/a>\n        <\/div><div class=\"ryokan-card\">\n            <a class=\"ryokan-card__link\" href=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/ryokan\/kamosumori\/\">\n                <figure class=\"ryokan-card__thumbnail\"><img decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/11\/DSC07325-1024x683.webp\" alt=\"KAMOSUMORI\"\/><\/figure>\n                <div class=\"ryokan-card__titleset\">\n                    <div class=\"ryokan-card__title-wrapper\">\n                        <span class=\"ryokan-card__title\">KAMOSUMORI<\/span>\n                        <p class=\"ryokan-card__area-info\">Niigata Prefecture<\/p>\n                    <\/div><ul class=\"ryokan-card__tag-list\"><\/ul><\/div>\n            <\/a>\n        <\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What is Kannonuma Forest Park? Kannonuma Forest Park in Shimogo Town, Fukushima Prefecture, is a natural park woven from the rich forests and lakes of the Minamiaizu region. Kannonuma Lake, at the park&#8217;s center, is believed to have formed over long ages through the erosion of lava created by the eruption of Mount K\u014dshikidake approximately 17,000 years ago. Located at an elevation of about 900 meters, it offers views of the surrounding mountain ranges. It is also known as a treasure trove for wild birds, allowing visitors to enjoy the luxury of listening to birdsong. The area around Kannon Pond, developed as a forest park in 1985, was once considered a remote wilderness due to its difficult access. However, the opening of National Route 289 (K\u014dshi Road) in 2008 transformed it into a tourist route connecting Shirakawa to Minamiaizu, quickly making it a popular spot renowned for its autumn foliage. Floating islands dot the lake&#8217;s perimeter, reflecting the scenery of all four <\/p>\n","protected":false},"featured_media":1775,"template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":true},"area":[2],"purpose":[],"ryokan-tags":[136,110],"spot-category":[],"class_list":["post-1771","spot","type-spot","status-publish","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","area-aizu","ryokan_tag-aizu","ryokan_tag-free-parking"],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/spot\/1771","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/spot"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/spot"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/1775"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=1771"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"area","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/area?post=1771"},{"taxonomy":"purpose","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/purpose?post=1771"},{"taxonomy":"ryokan_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/ryokan-tags?post=1771"},{"taxonomy":"spot-category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ryokan-book.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/spot-category?post=1771"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}