Opening: Small in Scale, Big on Charm – The Subtle Beauty of Hayama’s Countryside
Autumn makes us eager to explore fall foliage, doesn’t it? While Hayama may not have massive, showy autumn attractions like Tokyo’s Aoyama Ginkgo Avenue or Kamakura’s famous temples, the quiet charm of its countryside turning colors is what makes Hayama special.
Among these, Nangokaminoyama Park stands out as Zushi-Hayama’s No. 1 autumn spot. It’s not flashy, but its serene Ginkgo Avenue offers a perfect place to enjoy the season’s beauty at your own pace. Let me share all its charms with you today!
1: What Makes Nangokaminoyama Park a Beloved Local Spot?
Located in northern Hayama, Nangokaminoyama Park is a vast, green park that has been cherished by the community. Its 200-meter-long Ginkgo Avenue, planted during its opening in 1985, becomes a golden tunnel in autumn.
I visited around noon 11/19, and about 80% of the leaves had already turned yellow. It was stunning! I think it will be even more vibrant by this weekend
The park also features tennis courts, a multipurpose field, and a dog yard, making it a favorite spot for locals. On weekends, it’s bustling with families enjoying a day out.
2: The Charm of the Ginkgo Avenue and the Progress of the Foliage
What makes this Ginkgo Avenue unique is that the trees are minimally maintained, allowing them to grow naturally.As you walk along, a carpet of yellow leaves and a golden canopy create a truly photogenic experience.
When you look up at the ginkgo trees, sunlight streams through the leaves—it’s absolutely magical! But if you’re expecting grandeur, it might feel a bit modest. Instead, enjoy the tranquil beauty of Hayama’s countryside
The best time to visit is typically mid-to-late November. This year, the yellow leaves are as vibrant as ever, so don’t miss out!
3: Relax and Unwind at the Spacious Lawn
Nangokaminoyama Park also has a wide-open lawn area. It’s perfect for picnics while admiring the autumn colors, or for children to play freely.
I had lunch here, but watch out for Milvus! They’re quick to snatch food—my rice ball was gone in seconds (laughs). But it’s such a great spot to relax.
The contrast between the autumn hues and the greenery of the lawn makes this a wonderful place for families and friends to gather. Why not bring a picnic blanket and enjoy the scenery?
4: Dog Lovers, Take Note! A Spacious Dog Yard Awaits
For those with dogs, Nangokaminoyama Park features a dedicated dog yard where your furry friends can run freely and socialize. It’s a favorite among dog owners for its open, secure environment.
5: How to Get to Nangokaminoyama Park
Here’s all you need to know to plan your visit:
- Address: 1888-1 Nagae, Hayama, Kanagawa
- Parking: 184 spaces for regular vehicles (free)
- Hours: 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM (until 6 PM from June to August)
- Access: From JR Zushi Station or Keikyu Zushi-Hayama Station, take the bus to “Nango Chugakko” and walk for 5 minutes.
Parking is free but can get crowded on weekends, so arriving early is a good idea.
👉 Learn more about Nangokaminoyama Park here
Summary: Hayama’s Hidden Gem for Quiet Autumn Foliage
Summary: Hayama’s Hidden Gem for Quiet Autumn Foliage
Nangokaminoyama Park is not a flashy tourist destination, but a serene spot to enjoy the understated beauty of Hayama’s countryside. Its Ginkgo Avenue, the best in Zushi-Hayama, is an ideal place to experience the calm and charm of autumn.
While it may lack grandeur, the peaceful atmosphere and chance to connect with nature will undoubtedly soothe your soul. Take a trip and see for yourself!
At Hayanavi, we’ll continue to share the best of Hayama. Follow us for more updates, and stay tuned for our next post! ✨
Hi, this is Peli from Hayama.
I run Hayanavi, a platform introducing must-visit spots in Hayama.