Hello, fellow travelers!
This is Asukarando, your SaruKuma writer.

Today I’m excited to introduce you to a hidden gem located in Ueki-machi, Kita Ward, Kumamoto City:
“Jakushin-san no Kusu” (Jakushin’s Camphor Tree).

This peaceful neighborhood park in Ueki-machi is home to a majestic camphor tree that’s approximately 800 years old — a true living monument!

The massive trunk even has a hollow opening that looks like it’s straight out of “My Neighbor Totoro”!
Even though a few large branches were lost to a typhoon some years ago,
the tree still stands proud and breathtaking in its scale.

Doesn’t it just radiate energy and ancient wisdom?

It’s even officially recognized as one of Japan’s Top 100 Famous Trees.

What Makes This Spot Special

The playground equipment is perfectly sized for younger children — featuring a slide,
a horizontal bar, and monkey bars.

While the play equipment is modest, the real magic here is the abundant nature.
In spring, the cherry blossoms bloom alongside the great camphor — a stunning combination.
The sakura trees are low enough that you can capture beautiful photos of children among the blossoms.

The park is the perfect size — large enough to enjoy, but small enough to keep an eye on your kids.
Bring a tent or picnic blanket and spend a relaxing afternoon under the trees.
It’s truly one of our recommended hidden spots in Kumamoto.

In summer, you can catch Japanese rhinoceros beetles and stag beetles!
Butterflies, dragonflies, grasshoppers — the park is alive with insects.
If your kids love bug-hunting, bring a net and they’ll have an absolute blast.

You’ll find benches and shaded covered areas, plus plenty of natural shade — ideal for visiting with little ones.

There are 3 hand-washing stations throughout the park.

The first is right next to the camphor tree.

The second is just inside the entrance from the large parking lot.

And the third is in the center of the park.

The large parking lot has a ramp leading into the park,
so visitors with strollers or carts can enter without any trouble.

Note that the smaller parking lot only has stairs.

A vending machine is located across the road, on the camphor tree side.

It currently sports a Kumamoto Castle illustration,
though previously it featured Jakushin-san himself. The artwork seems to change occasionally!

Important: there’s no crosswalk, so please be cautious when crossing the road.

There are 2 restrooms in the park.
The one near the larger parking lot has Western-style toilets,
while the other only has Japanese-style squat toilets.
Toilet paper sometimes runs out, so it’s a good idea to bring tissues just in case.

This is the restroom by the large parking lot (Western-style available).

And here’s the restroom at the small parking lot (Japanese-style only).
This lot has space for about 4 cars.

The large parking lot fits many vehicles,
but it also serves as a rest stop for work vehicles.
Large trucks may be parked or driving through,
so please hold your children’s hands and stay alert in the parking area.

Also note: BBQ is not permitted at this park.

Be sure to add this magical spot to your Kumamoto itinerary! (*^^*)

Park Information

Frequently Asked Questions

※Information is based on the time of visit. Prices and hours may change. Please confirm before visiting.