2026 Hyogo Prefectural Hitokura Park (兵庫県立一庫公園) Hill Stream: Full-Day Course

The Hill Stream at Hyogo Prefectural Hitokura Park (兵庫県立一庫公園), in the hills of Kawanishi City, is a water feature where a stream flows down a slope with a vertical drop of roughly 20 metres over a total length of about 210 metres. In 2026 the water runs from Saturday 18 July to Sunday 30 August in two sessions: from around 10:00 to 12:00, and from around 13:00 to around 16:00. It stops between 12:00 and 13:00 for equipment inspection, so planning around lunch and aiming for the afternoon session makes scheduling easier. In September the water runs only on Saturdays, Sundays and public holidays, and it may be stopped in rain or if the water becomes dirty or blocked. Admission is free. Being able to walk down through shallow water running a long way along a hillside is what sets it apart from the flat pools of a typical splash pond. There are no showers or changing rooms, and slippers or sandals are not allowed in the water (water shoes are fine). In the morning, take in Lake Chimyo (知明湖) at Hitokura Dam spread out before you, learn about the local woodland nature at the park's Nature Center, then spread out your packed lunch in the shade. In the afternoon it is finally time for the Hill Stream, a day spent playing until evening surrounded by the sound of running water.