Makuyama Park (solo trip)
How Solo-Friendly is Makuyama Park?
What makes it 87% Solo-Friendly: A solo traveler can hike the summit trail, photograph 4,000 plum blossoms, and linger at stream banks without coordinating with others. Access by bus and ¥0–¥200 entry keeps cost low.
Positives:
- Quiet Exploration: Wide trails offer solitude for personal reflection.
- No Entry Fee: Most park features are free outside festival season.
Challenges:
- Limited Signage: Trail markers are few—download a map before hiking.
- No On-site Food Year-round: Vendors appear only during the Ume Party; bring your own snacks.
What is Makuyama Park?
- A hillside park occupying the lower slopes of Mount Maku in the Hakone region
- A cultivated grove of approximately 4,000 ume (plum) trees arranged across terraced embankments
- Picnic and barbecue facilities interspersed with a network of forested trails leading to the 625-meter summit
What is so special about Makuyama Park for solo trip?
- Self-guided summit hike with panoramic coastal views
- Seasonal plum blossom grove and evening light-ups
- Free bird-watching spots by serene streams
- Quick obstacle-course challenge near the entrance
- Picnic lawns and BBQ grounds (reserve April–October)
Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours
Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for solo trip: Allows time for a summit hike, a stroll through the plum grove, bird watching and a rest by the streams without rushing.
Solo-Friendly Activities in Makuyama Park
Summit Hike to Mount Maku:
Follow the zig-zag trail up to the 625 m summit for views of Sagami Bay and the Manazuru Peninsula.
Tip: Wear sturdy shoes, carry water, and set off early to avoid midday heat.
Ume Grove Stroll:
Wander beneath about 4,000 red and white plum trees near the park entrance.
Tip: Visit mid-February to early March and stay past dusk for light-up evenings (¥200 festival entry).
Bird Watching by the Streams:
Sit on benches near ponds and streams to spot kingfishers, warblers and seasonal waterfowl.
Tip: Bring or borrow binoculars from Hakone Visitor Center and stay silent to avoid scaring birds away.
Obstacle Course Challenge:
Test balance and agility on the rope-and-wood course next to the park gate.
Tip: Check for wet or slippery wood after rain and go during off-peak hours to have it to yourself.
Picnic at Designated Areas:
Spread a mat on grassy lawns or use picnic tables under shade trees.
Tip: Pack snacks from Yugawara shops or bring a bento; avoid the hottest part of the day for sun protection.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Makuyama Park
- Early Arrival: Start before 9 AM to enjoy empty trails and cooler temperatures.
- Map Offline: Save a digital map beforehand; mobile signal can be weak under dense trees.
Reviews of Makuyama Park
ぶるさん
While most reviews seem to focus on the plum grove, I'd like to share that the autumn foliage is actually quite beautiful as well! 🍁⠜ While most people probably visit between January and March, Yugawara's warm climate means the autumn foliage peaks in early December, allowing you to enjoy it until late into the day. At this time of year, the air is dry and the skies are clear, making the autumn...
Knud Hermansen
Nice shaded park with ample parking. Fun obstacle playground. Access to the river and fishing. Also some great trails available from here.
Aviv Koren
very cozy and nice. and their were also high quality goods.
Steffen Eckart
Makuyama Park spends 11 months out of the year essentially dormant and uninteresting, but in February it puts on its full dress in the form of a wide variety of plum blossoms. Now is the time to visit. For those in the area on the last week of February, I highly recommend visiting. For details ask at the visitor center next to Yugawara Station.
Tony O'Connor
Lovely spot. We caught it as plum trees were beginning to bloom. Lovely scents too. We hiked up the mountain a ways for a nice bit of exercise. We spent about 3 hours there. Easy 15 minutes bus ride up from Yugawara station.
When is the best time to visit Makuyama Park (Hakone, Japan)?
Visit mid-February to early March for plum blossoms and evening illuminations. From April to October, reserve BBQ grounds in advance. Trails can become slippery after spring and summer rains—wear proper footwear.
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Typical Budget for Solo Traveler (1 Adult)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Ume Party entry fee | JPY 200 |
| Festival snacks | JPY 500 |
| Total Estimated | JPY 700 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
Map of Makuyama Park
Address: Parking lot, 951-1 Kajiya, Yugawara, Ashigarashimo District, Kanagawa 259-0313, Japan
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About Makuyama Park
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
Website
Official WebsitePhone Number
+81 465-63-211110 BEST nearby Activities
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