Chikuma River Man'yō Park

Overview

Chikuma River Man'yo Park is a park in Chikuma City, Nagano Prefecture. As its name suggests, it is named after the Man'yoshu, Japan's oldest anthology of poetry, and the Chikuma River, a great river flowing through Shinshu. Set on the bank of the leisurely Chikuma, it is a place of rest where one can while away the hours, imagining the scenes evoked in ancient verse. Amid the scenery woven by the river surface and the surrounding mountains, this locally cherished park invites strolls and quiet riverside repose.

Highlights

• ●A restful park spreading along the bank of the leisurely Chikuma River
• ●A name drawn from the Man'yoshu, Japan's oldest poetry anthology
• ●Seasonal scenery woven by the river surface and the mountains of Shinshu
• ●A tranquil atmosphere suited to riverside strolls and repose

History

The park was developed in honor of two names, the Chikuma River and the Man'yoshu. The Man'yoshu is known as Japan's oldest poetry anthology, and the Chikuma is a river representative of Shinshu. Bearing both names, the park was created as a place to carry into the present the poetic sentiment of Japan that flows with its rivers. For details of its opening and highlights such as poem monuments within the grounds, checking official sources or on-site information allows for deeper enjoyment.

Map

36.4784, 138.1463 · Wikidata

Suggested itinerary

1. 1Head to Chikuma River Man'yo Park by car from central Chikuma City
2. 2Stroll along the bank of the Chikuma and enjoy the river breeze and views
3. 3Rest at leisure in the grounds, imagining the sentiment of Man'yo verse
4. 4Round off the trip with hot springs or local fare around Chikuma City

Did you know?

💡 The Man'yo in the park's name derives from the Man'yoshu, Japan's oldest poetry anthology. The Chikuma River has long been a scenic river celebrated in verse, and through its name this park carries into the present the age-old bond between river and poetry.

Nearby spots