Umekoji Park

It was March 3rd. The plum blossoms looked wonderful despite the cold weather. The ume blossoms beside the railway also looked gorgeous while watching the train pass by on its way to Kyoto Station.

Umekoji Park, situated just west of Kyoto Station, is a spacious urban park that opened in 1995. It offers a tranquil retreat from the city’s hustle and bustle, featuring expansive lawns, seasonal flower gardens, and shaded walkways. The park is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike, providing ample space for picnics, leisurely strolls, and recreational activities. A notable attraction within Umekoji Park is the Kyoto Railway Museum, which opened in 2016. As Japan’s largest railway museum, it showcases an extensive collection of locomotives and carriages, including a 500-series Shinkansen. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits that detail the evolution of Japan’s railway system, making it a must-visit for train enthusiasts.  Another highlight is the Kyoto Aquarium, located on the park’s northern edge. Opened in 2012, the aquarium features nine zones, including a Dolphin Stadium, a Rivers of Kyoto zone housing Japanese giant salamanders, and a Penguin Zone. The facility focuses on both entertainment and education, aiming to teach visitors about aquatic life and environmental conservation.  The park also includes the Midori-no-kan garden, a tea house, and the Inochi-no-Mori (Living Forest) area, which features small ponds and a biotope that recreates the natural environment prior to urbanization. Additionally, visitors can find old trolley cars repurposed as small museums and souvenir shops, offering a glimpse into Kyoto’s transportation history.  Throughout the year, Umekoji Park hosts various events and festivals, enhancing its vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re interested in cultural exhibits, family-friendly attractions, or simply seeking a peaceful place to relax, Umekoji Park provides a diverse and enjoyable experience in the heart of Kyoto.

Beautiful park, you can walk and just enjoy the local vibes and the nature. lots of places to take pictures. There is a heron resides in the pond who let you take picture of him.

Excellent place for kids, super clean and safe. The park has two restaurants, buffet restaurant and a la carte. the park located near by the Kyoto railway museum.

One of my favorite parts of our stay in Kyoto. My son jokingly called it "Old Man Park" because I loved going here in the morning to eat some rice and eggs and watch the trains and birds. Super safe area and a great view of the train tracks, while also (somehow!) being a peaceful nature-focused place with ducks, cranes and crows, among other wildlife.