Japan Navel Park is a large public park in Kamihiecho, Nishiwaki City, Hyogo Prefecture. Its unusual name comes from its location near the geographical center of the Japanese archipelago, making it a distinctive destination for visitors interested in geography, science, art, and outdoor recreation.
The park is associated with the intersection of 135 degrees east longitude and 35 degrees north latitude. The 135th meridian east is the reference longitude used to determine Japan Standard Time, and the area is widely known as the “navel of Japan” because of its central geographical position.
A marker was erected at the intersection in 1923. Nearby, the Kakogawa River is crossed by a bridge called Idobashi, or Latitude Bridge, adding another geographical point of interest to the area.
In January 1983, Nishiwaki City expanded the existing Okanoyama Park and renamed it Japan Navel Park to promote the area’s claim to being the center of Japan. The park subsequently developed into a destination combining art, science, and family recreation.
In October 1984, the Okanoyama Museum of Art opened, featuring works by Tadanori Yokoo, a renowned artist born in Nishiwaki. In 1993, the Nishi-waki Earth Science Museum, known as Terra Dome, was established to introduce visitors to the Earth’s coordinates and related scientific subjects.
Additional attractions followed in 1995. The Hanayashiki Rest House restaurant opened in May, and the large playground known as Uchūko Land was added in July, giving children a place to enjoy science-themed play equipment.
Another landmark, the Heso Monument, was installed in April 1994 at a different intersection identified through GPS measurements. Designed by Patrick Berger, this distinctive monument offers a modern interpretation of the area’s identity as the center of Japan.
The JR Kakogawa Line runs through the park, and Japan Navel Park Station opened in July 1985. The station provides convenient access directly to the park, making it easy to visit by train without needing a car.
The Okanoyama Museum of Art is one of the park’s main cultural attractions. It features works by Tadanori Yokoo, whose bold, imaginative style has made him an influential figure in contemporary Japanese art. Visitors interested in modern art and Japanese visual culture will find this museum especially rewarding.
Uchūko Land is a popular area for families, with large play structures that encourage children to explore and enjoy themselves while learning about science and space. It provides a welcome opportunity for younger visitors to burn off energy between the park’s cultural and educational attractions.
Terra Dome, officially known as the Nishi-waki Earth Science Museum, introduces visitors to the Earth’s system of latitude and longitude and other scientific topics. Its exhibits help explain geographical concepts and the significance of Nishiwaki’s location in relation to Japan’s map coordinates.
The Heso Monument marks the area’s distinctive identity through a design by French artist Patrick Berger. Located at an intersection identified using GPS technology, it is an unusual landmark and a popular point of interest for visitors exploring the park.
Entry to Japan Navel Park is free. However, separate admission fees apply to certain facilities, including the Okanoyama Museum of Art and Terra Dome. These attractions host exhibitions and events that appeal to families, art enthusiasts, and curious travelers.
Since 2006, Nishiwaki City has held the Heso Nishiwaki Textile Festival to commemorate the city’s new municipal administration. The festival celebrates the region’s textile industry while highlighting Nishiwaki’s identity as the geographical “navel” of Japan. The park has served as a festival venue, bringing visitors together for local cultural celebrations.
The park is within walking distance of Japan Navel Park Station on the JR Kakogawa Line, making rail travel a convenient option. Parking is also available for visitors arriving by car.
With its combination of geographical landmarks, contemporary art, science exhibits, and family-friendly attractions, Japan Navel Park offers an enjoyable way to explore a distinctive part of Hyogo Prefecture. Visitors can learn about Japan’s geographical position, discover the work of a celebrated artist, and spend time outdoors in a park with a character unlike any other.