Hello there!
This is Yutomino, writer for 《Sarukuma》!

Today, we’re introducing
“Hikarinomori Disaster Prevention Plaza”
located in Hikarinomori, Kikuyo Town, Kikuchi District, Kumamoto Prefecture.

This facility was just completed in April of this year!

You’ll find it right next to “Kikuyo Town Hikarinomori Community Center Caroppia”.
The plaza features all sorts of clever designs where parents and children can
learn about disaster preparedness while having fun together♬

Highlights

“Hikarinomori Disaster Prevention Plaza” functions as a
designated emergency evacuation site in the event of a disaster.

This is the “Disaster Prevention Storage Building.”
Although it’s not normally open to the public,
it holds emergency supplies and contains an evacuation room inside.
During a disaster, it’s designed to accommodate evacuees who need extra support,
such as elderly people, infants, and pregnant women.

This is a play hill (tsukiyama) built so that children can have a place to play even during emergency evacuations!

It was created to help relieve stress.
Kids can climb up and down,

and since lots of cars pass by around the plaza,
our kids loved standing at the top of the hill watching them go by♪

Believe it or not, these small manholes can be
transformed into private toilets by setting up tent enclosures during disasters!

Of course, there are also regular restrooms available for everyday use!
There are two multipurpose restrooms equipped with diaper-changing stations♪

You’ll find these wide benches in two locations
(regular benches are available too☆)

And here’s the clever part — these wide benches
can be opened up to become emergency stretchers!

This is the azumaya (traditional pavilion).
It’s super comfortable with wide benches and plenty of shade♪

But that’s not all!

Amazingly, in emergencies or during events, this pavilion transforms into a shelter!
I was completely amazed when I first saw it!

This faucet doesn’t release water under normal circumstances.
During a disaster, it’s designed to provide well water.
Note that it’s not suitable for drinking.

This one, however, can be used as drinking water
and a hand-washing station on a regular basis!

There are two of these♪

What did you think?
You can really feel the experience and ingenuity that comes from Kumamoto Prefecture
having lived through the 2016 earthquake disaster.

And of course, this isn’t just for emergencies — it’s a wonderful spacious park that you can enjoy
as a grassy area or for daily strolls
any time of year♬

The central grass area is wonderfully spacious!

The parking lot is also generously sized!

Whether you live in Kikuyo Town or come from another area —
imagine if an earthquake struck while you were shopping at YouMe Town Hikarinomori, for example…
Knowing about this “Hikarinomori Disaster Prevention Plaza” in advance
could help you stay calm and act with confidence♪

We highly recommend visiting at least once with your family♬
*Located right next to Hikarinomori Community Center Caroppia.

Information

Frequently Asked Questions

*Information is current as of the time of reporting. Prices and hours are subject to change. Please verify before your visit.