Nishiyama Park (Fukui Prefecture)

Located in the center of Sabae City, Nishiyama Park traces its roots back to Kyoyokei, a garden created in 1856 by Sabae Domain’s 7th lord, Manabe Akikatsu, for the enjoyment of his people. With over 160 years of history and beautiful scenery, the park has been selected as one of the 100 Historical Parks of Japan.

In autumn, the park becomes one of Fukui’s top spots for fall foliage, with about 1,600 maple trees turning brilliant shades of red. Highlights include Kyoyo Garden, a reconstructed version of Lord Manabe’s original garden, offering a particularly atmospheric setting. Seasonal flowers also brighten the park throughout the year, from cherry blossoms in early April to irises in early summer. Around Golden Week, roughly 50,000 azaleas bloom in vivid colors, drawing large crowds for the annual Azalea Festival.

Within the park is Nishiyama Zoo, home to squirrel monkeys, gibbons, and various bird species, and free for the public to enjoy. Its biggest stars are the red pandas-over ten are kept here-renowned for their successful breeding program and their adorable expressions and lively movements.
Other attractions include a spacious lawn area, a roadside station, and an observation deck offering sweeping views over Sabae City.