Welcome to Donguri Hiroba (Acorn Plaza)

Hello travelers! I’m Gachako, a writer for Sarukuma.

Today I’m thrilled to introduce Donguri Hiroba (Acorn Plaza), a wonderful new park located in Nishihara Village, Aso District, Kumamoto Prefecture.

This shiny new park opened its gates on April 1, 2024. Just opened recently!
The site was previously used for temporary housing following the 2016 Kumamoto Earthquake, and it has been beautifully reborn as a safe, welcoming place where children can play freely.

While locals will love this spot, the park is also incredibly easy to find within Nishihara Village—making it an ideal rest stop or fun break for families driving toward the Aso region.

Our family actually used it ourselves during a road trip to Takachiho—a quick restroom visit and some fresh-air play time made all the difference!

The parking lot is enormous! There’s accessible parking for visitors with disabilities, plus three separate parking areas (Lots 1–3).
Covered benches make it perfect for enjoying a packed lunch outdoors. The vibrant artificial turf really pops!

Hand-washing stations are equipped with Kumamoto’s famously pure spring water!

The restrooms are brand new—bright, modern, and spotlessly clean.

Donguri Hiroba is fully fenced, and the grounds are covered with artificial turf, soft soil, or rubber mats. You can really feel the thoughtfulness that went into keeping kids safe while they let loose and play.

It’s an inclusive playground—meaning the equipment is designed so that children with and without disabilities can play side by side. That explains the warm, welcoming atmosphere!

Right next door is the village gymnasium, complete with a grassy lawn area, and just beyond that you’ll find artificial-turf tennis courts!

Top Highlights of Donguri Hiroba

Here’s one feature I absolutely love…

Drumroll please…

There’s a Higo Bank ATM right next door—incredibly handy when you’re traveling, isn’t it?

And now, the moment you’ve been waiting for—a tour of the play equipment!

A toddler-friendly slide along with cozy nooks for hiding, climbing, and exploring.

A combination play structure featuring three different slides plus plenty of climbing challenges for hands and feet.

This wavy, wobbly slide was such a hit, the kids slid down again and again (laughs)!

An endless spinner that gives the inner ear quite a workout!

And of course, everyone’s all-time favorite—swings!

The grounds are just the right size—not too big, not too small—so everyone leaves happy and satisfied.
It was the perfect break during our drive.

The seasons ahead will be hot, so please stay hydrated, watch out for heatstroke, and enjoy plenty of play time!

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Frequently Asked Questions

※Information accurate as of the time of reporting. Prices and operating hours may change. Please confirm before visiting.