Kodomo no Kuni (Children's Land)

Kodomo no Kuni — literally 'Children's Land' — is an enormous outdoor recreation park straddling the border of Yokohama's Aoba Ward and neighbouring Machida, created to give city children room to roam in nature. Opened in 1965 on former imperial and military land to commemorate the Crown Prince's wedding, it spreads across roughly 240 acres of wooded hills, open meadows and ponds, making it one of the largest family parks in the greater Tokyo area and a world apart from the towers of central Yokohama.

The park's philosophy is refreshingly simple: give kids space, fresh air and gentle activity rather than high-tech thrills. Within its vast grounds are rolling grassy hills perfect for rolling down or flying kites, shaded woodland trails, a large central pond where visitors can hire rowboats and pedal boats, and seasonal attractions like a summer swimming pool and a winter ice-skating rink. A working dairy farm lets children meet cows and sample soft-serve ice cream made on-site, while smaller petting areas introduce them to rabbits, sheep and other animals. Low-key rides — a miniature train, a cycling course, boats and a small carousel — are scattered through the park, most charging a small extra fee on top of admission.

Because the terrain is genuinely hilly and the distances between attractions are long, exploring Kodomo no Kuni feels like a proper day in the countryside. Many families rent bicycles or ride the little sightseeing train to reach the further meadows, and it is easy to spend three or four hours here without covering everything. The landscaping is designed to showcase the seasons: cherry and other blossom trees in spring, hydrangeas and lush green in summer, and a fine sweep of autumn colour across the wooded slopes in November. Picnic lawns invite families to bring a packed lunch, and several casual restaurants and snack stands provide alternatives.

The atmosphere is relaxed, wholesome and overwhelmingly local — this is where Yokohama and Machida families come for birthdays, school outings and weekend fresh air, and foreign tourists are rare, which is part of the appeal for anyone wanting to see everyday Japanese family life. Facilities are well maintained, with plenty of restrooms, baby-changing areas, lockers and stroller-friendly main paths, though the hilly back sections require some effort.

To reach it, ride to Nagatsuta Station, served by the Tokyu Denentoshi and JR Yokohama lines, then transfer to the short, dedicated Kodomonokuni Line that runs to its terminus right beside the park entrance. The park is closed on Wednesdays, so plan around that, and aim for a weekday in spring or autumn for the best mix of comfortable weather and thinner crowds. For families travelling with young children who need a break from urban sightseeing, Kodomo no Kuni offers a rare and welcome dose of open green space.