21st Century Forest and Square is a spacious urban park in Matsudo City, Chiba Prefecture, where visitors can enjoy a rich natural environment within the city. The park was created to preserve the natural landscape of the Sendabori area while providing a place for recreation and relaxation as an urban park.
Wetlands, forests, ponds, and open green spaces have been incorporated into the park, reflecting its guiding principle of “protecting and nurturing the nature of Sendabori.” The park offers opportunities for walking, picnicking, birdwatching, outdoor activities, and seasonal events, making it an enjoyable destination for both local residents and visitors.
21st Century Forest and Square opened on April 29, 1993. The opening date was formerly known in Japan as Greenery Day, a national holiday associated with appreciation of nature.
During the planning and development of the park, considerable discussion took place over how to balance the convenience of an urban park with the protection of the area’s existing natural environment.
There were proposals for major landscaping projects, including paving a stream and transforming it into a waterside recreational area, as well as filling wetlands to create large lawn areas. Local residents called for as much of the original natural environment as possible to be preserved, helping shape the character of the park today.
Prefectural Route 51 passes through the park, and a large arched bridge spanning the park’s valley serves as one of its most recognizable landmarks.
The park is also adjacent to the Matsudo City Museum and Mori no Hall 21, creating an area where visitors can combine outdoor recreation with cultural experiences.
One of the most appealing features of 21st Century Forest and Square is its extensive open lawn area. Visitors can relax on the grass, enjoy a picnic, or simply take a break surrounded by greenery.
A network of walking paths runs through the park, allowing visitors to enjoy leisurely strolls and walks while experiencing the changing scenery of the four seasons.
Sendabori Pond is an important natural feature of the park and a popular location for observing birds and other wildlife.
A Nature Observation Center is also available, providing visitors with opportunities to learn about and observe the plants and animals living in the park. In particular, spring and autumn attract a variety of birds, making the area an appealing destination for birdwatchers.
The park also provides a barbecue area where families and friends can enjoy cooking and eating outdoors. Visitors can complete the necessary procedures at the Outdoor Activity Reception Building before using the facilities.
Spending time outdoors in a natural setting makes the park suitable for visitors who want a relaxed break from sightseeing in the city.
21st Century Forest and Square has four main entrances: the Central Entrance, North Entrance, West Entrance, and South Entrance. Visitors can enter the park from any of these entrances.
All entrances are closed at night, so visitors should take the park’s operating hours into account when planning their visit.
The park is surrounded by several cultural facilities, including the Matsudo City Museum, Mori no Hall 21, and the Chiba Prefectural Seibu Library.
Combining the park with one or more of these facilities is a convenient way to enjoy both nature and culture during a day in Matsudo.
21st Century Forest and Square has also become a popular destination for young people who enjoy cosplay. This is connected with Matsudo City’s initiative to promote itself as a “cosplay-friendly city.”
Visitors may use the park while wearing cosplay costumes after completing the required procedures in advance. Group cosplay events are also held, making the park an interesting example of how public spaces can become venues for new forms of cultural exchange and creative activity.
A variety of events are held at 21st Century Forest and Square throughout the year. These events provide opportunities to experience local culture, nature, and community activities.
The Greenery and Flowers Festival is held annually on April 29. Visitors can enjoy flowers and plants while spending time in the park’s natural surroundings. The event is held even in rainy weather and attracts many families and nature enthusiasts.
The Matsudo Children’s Festival takes place on May 3. It features a variety of activities and entertainment designed especially for children and families. In the event of rain, it may be postponed until the following day.
The Matsudo Grand Agriculture Festival is held on November 23. It provides an opportunity to experience the agricultural culture of the local area, with activities such as the sale of fresh vegetables and hands-on agricultural experiences.
Event dates and programs may change, so visitors are advised to check the latest information on the official website before traveling.
The nearest railway station is Yabashira Station on the Shin-Keisei Line. The park can be conveniently reached using public transportation within Matsudo City.
Because the Matsudo City Museum and Mori no Hall 21 are located next to the park, visitors can combine several destinations and spend much of the day exploring the area.
21st Century Forest and Square is a large urban park where visitors can experience nature without leaving the city. Its forests, wetlands, pond, lawns, and walking paths create a relaxing environment for people of all ages.
Families can enjoy picnics and barbecues, while nature lovers can observe birds and seasonal plants around Sendabori Pond. The park also offers a unique cultural atmosphere through cosplay activities and community festivals held throughout the year.
Its location beside several major cultural facilities makes it especially convenient for travelers who want to combine outdoor recreation, nature observation, and cultural sightseeing. For visitors exploring the Matsudo area, 21st Century Forest and Square offers a refreshing opportunity to slow down and experience one of Chiba’s spacious urban green spaces.