Hyotan Pool (Chikanaga Park) (ひょうたんプール (近永公園))

Flow of the course

About this spot

Hyotan Pool (Chikanaga Park) (ひょうたんプール (近永公園)) is an outdoor pool in Chikanaga Park, Kihoku Town, Kitauwa District. In a typical year it's open from July 21 to August 31, 9:30am to 5:00pm. Surrounded by the nature of the Nara River, it's built shallow for toddlers through elementary schoolers, so even kids new to the water can stand on their own two feet and play with peace of mind. As the name suggests, its water surface is shaped like a gourd (hyotan), and that playful shape appeals to children's sense of fun. Admission is free, so you're welcome to get out for a break and go back in whenever you like — a freedom that's part of what makes this spot special. It's a summer gathering place for local children in Kihoku Town.

Season & hours

Tips

Closed every Tuesday. It's also closed whenever a weather warning is issued (excluding high-wave warnings), so on days with unsettled weather, check Kihoku Town's information for the opening status before you set out. There are few shops nearby, so prepare drinks and food in advance, such as at the roadside station. Being by the river, insects can appear in the evening. A leisure sheet is handy for breaks and for setting down your things.

Best time to visit

Entering at 12:40pm gives you about 4 hours until evening. Play at a relaxed pace with breaks in between.

Access & map

Chikanaga Park, Kihoku-cho, Kitauwa-gun