Ashitaka Park

Updated August 10, 2025

Description

Ashitaka Park, officially known as Shizuoka Prefectural Ashitaka Wide Area Park, is one of those places that manages to blend the energy of sports with the calm of nature. Sitting on the southern slopes of Mount Ashitaka in Numazu, Shizuoka, it’s got a bit of everything for people who like to move, watch, or just breathe in some fresh mountain air. The park is home to a certified second-class athletic stadium, which also doubles as the home ground for Azul Claro Numazu, a J3 League soccer team that has a loyal local following. On match days, the place comes alive with the sound of drums, chants, and the smell of street food wafting in from nearby vendors. Even if you’re not a football fan, it’s hard not to get caught up in the excitement.

Then there’s the baseball field, which isn’t just there for casual games. It hosts high school baseball tournaments and even games from the NPB Western League featuring the Kufu Hayate team. If you’ve never seen a Japanese baseball game in person, the energy is something else—fans with trumpets, choreographed cheers, and an atmosphere that’s just pure fun. And for families or those just looking for a more relaxed day, the park has playgrounds, open spaces, and walking paths that wind through the greenery. You’ll also find it’s a bit of a pop culture spot—fans of the anime “Love Live! Sunshine!!” might recognize it from the music video for “Eikyuu Hours,” which was filmed here. It’s not unusual to see visitors snapping photos in the same spots featured in the PV.

The park feels well-kept without being overly manicured, which I personally like—it’s got a lived-in charm. You might notice some areas feel a bit older or utilitarian, but that’s part of its character. It’s not a flashy tourist trap; it’s a place where locals actually spend their weekends. Accessibility is also a strong point here, with wheelchair-friendly entrances and parking, as well as gender-neutral restrooms. Parking’s free and on-site, which is a rare treat in Japan. All in all, it’s a spot that balances sports, community, and a bit of scenic charm, making it worth a visit whether you’re in town for a game or just want to explore something off the usual tourist radar.

Key Features

• Certified second-class athletic stadium, home to Azul Claro Numazu (J3 League)
• Full-sized baseball field hosting high school tournaments and NPB Western League games
• Playgrounds and open green spaces for casual recreation
• Walking and jogging paths with views of Mount Ashitaka
• Filming location for “Eikyuu Hours” music video from Love Live! Sunshine!!
• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking
• Gender-neutral restrooms
• Free on-site parking

Best Time to Visit

If you’re coming for sports events, your timing will naturally depend on the schedule. Soccer matches for Azul Claro Numazu usually run from spring through late autumn, and baseball season is typically in full swing from spring to summer. Personally, I think late spring is the sweet spot—April and May give you mild weather, blooming flowers, and clear views of Mount Fuji on a good day. Summer can be lively but also hot and humid, so bring a hat and plenty of water if you’re planning to spend the day outdoors. Autumn is another great time; the air is crisp, and the surrounding mountains start to show off their fall colors. Winter is quieter, which some people love, but you may need to bundle up as the winds can be chilly.

How to Get There

Ashitaka Park is located in Numazu, which is well-connected by train from major cities like Tokyo and Shizuoka. From Numazu Station, you can grab a local bus or taxi to the park. If you’re driving, it’s pretty straightforward—the park has free on-site parking, which makes it a great option for those traveling by car. Just be aware that on big game days, the parking lot can fill up quickly, so arriving early is a smart move. For those who like a bit of a walk, you can also get there from nearby stations with a 20–30 minute stroll, which is a nice way to take in the local scenery.

Tips for Visiting

First things first—check the event schedule before you go. If you want to catch a soccer or baseball game, you’ll need to plan ahead. On the flip side, if you’re looking for a quieter visit, aim for weekdays or non-event days. Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you’re planning to explore the walking paths or watch a game from the stands. The sun can be strong, so sunscreen and a hat are your friends.

If you’re a Love Live! Sunshine!! fan, you might want to bring along some reference photos so you can track down the exact filming spots. And don’t be shy about bringing snacks or a picnic—there’s plenty of space to spread out. Although there are vending machines and sometimes food stalls during events, having your own food means you can settle in wherever you like. For families, the playgrounds are a big hit, and the open spaces are perfect for letting kids run around safely.

One last tip: the weather can change quickly here, especially with the park’s proximity to the mountains, so having a light jacket or umbrella handy is never a bad idea. And if you’re driving, remember that while parking is free, it’s first-come, first-served, so early birds definitely get the worm.

Key Highlights

• Certified second-class athletic stadium, home to Azul Claro Numazu (J3 League)
• Full-sized baseball field hosting high school tournaments and NPB Western League games
• Playgrounds and open green spaces for casual recreation
• Walking and jogging paths with views of Mount Ashitaka
• Filming location for “Eikyuu Hours” music video from Love Live! Sunshine!!
• Wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking
• Gender-neutral restrooms
• Free on-site parking

Location

Places to Stay Near Ashitaka Park

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