Hyogo Prefectural Takarazuka Nishitani Forest Park

Hyogo Prefectural Takarazuka Nishitani no Mori Park is a public park in Takarazuka City, Hyogo Prefecture, opened in 2008 (Heisei 20). Making use of the rich satoyama nature of the Sakaino area in northern Takarazuka, Hyogo Prefecture developed it as a “CSR (Culture, Sports, Recreation) facility” to promote cultural, sports, and recreational activities for residents. Access is via Hankyu Railway Takarazuka Station or JR Takarazuka Line Takedao Station, then take Hankyu Den’en Bus, get off at the “Nishitani no Mori Koen-guchi” bus stop, and walk about 10 minutes. The park is composed of three main areas: the “East Valley Area,” where you can enjoy nature and observe flora and fauna around Hoyatani Pond; the “West Valley Area,” which recreates a rural landscape and offers hands-on farming experiences in rice paddies, fields, and orchards; and the “Forest Area,” featuring an observation deck at about 350 meters elevation with a 360° panoramic view. A wide variety of programs are held each month—such as rice planting and harvesting, vegetable-growing experiences, bamboo brush making, and health-oriented hiking—making it a great weekend destination for families.