IbarakiLeisure

Museum Park Ibaraki Nature Museum Water Plaza (ミュージアムパーク茨城県自然博物館水の広場)

Flow of the course

Previous stop: Walk along the wetland shore in search of wildlife

About 20 min from the previous stop

About 130 min here

About this spot

The Museum Park Ibaraki Nature Museum Water Plaza (ミュージアムパーク茨城県自然博物館水の広場) is a water-play spot within the outdoor facilities of the nature museum in Bando City. Taking advantage of the valley terrain known as 'yatsu', a channel laid along the slope creates a shallow stream. There is a fountain at the upstream end, and you can watch with your eyes as the water flowing from it cascades down in stages. Since the facility was originally built to observe the flow of water, what makes this plaza special is that you can physically confirm the simple fact that 'water moves from high ground to low ground' while playing. Visiting after seeing the exhibits in the main building makes the connection between terrain and water easier for children to grasp.

Season & hours

Name: ミュージアムパーク茨城県自然博物館水の広場

Date & time: 7/20–late September(予定) 9:30–15:30

Venue: 坂東市・ミュージアムパーク茨城県自然博物館(野外施設)

Source: nat.museum.ibk.ed.jp

Tips

There is no additional charge to use the Water Plaza (the museum admission fee or outdoor facility usage fee is required). In fiscal year 2026, it is scheduled to be open from July 20 through the end of September, from 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM. Since this is not a facility intended for swimming, the water is not held to the same hygiene standards as swimming facilities. It is regularly treated with chlorine, but be sure to tell children in advance not to drink the water. The bottom of the sloped channel can be slippery, so bring water shoes or sandals that won't easily come off. Since it closes at 3:30 PM, planning your morning so you can get in the water shortly after noon lets you play to the fullest.