Have you heard about a rare Pokémon‑themed park in Japan? Located in Ayagawa, Kagawa Prefecture, Hidamari Park Ayagawa—affectionately known as “Yadon Park”—is a charming, family‑friendly destination dedicated to Slowpoke (Yadon).
As part of a regional revitalization initiative between the Kagawa government and The Pokémon Company, Yadon was officially appointed as Kagawa’s “Udon Prefecture PR Ambassador” in 2018, thanks to its name sounding similar to udon, Kagawa’s famous local noodle. Since its grand opening in April 2023, Yadon Park has quickly become a must‑visit spot, offering playful experiences, scenic photo opportunities, and inclusive design that appeals to both kids and adults.(いきたね日本)
This guide covers everything: park highlights, how to reach the park, details on parking, photo‑worthy spots, Pokéfuta manhole covers, and the fact that no merchandise is sold inside the park—so you know exactly what to expect!
目次-table of contents
- What Is Yadon Park? Understanding Its Unique Pokémon & Kagawa Connection
- Dive into the Yadon World: 6 Magical Play Structures & Comfort Features
- 📷 No Goods Sold Inside — But Explore Pokémon Manhole Art Around Town!
- 📌 Visiting Info: How to Arrive, Hours, & Parking Details
- 🌄 Best Photo & Visit Tips for Instagram‑Worthy Shots
- ✅ Park Rules & Tips for a Respectful Visit
- 🌟 Final Thoughts: Why International Visitors Will Love Yadon Park
What Is Yadon Park? Understanding Its Unique Pokémon & Kagawa Connection
Yadon Park is the nickname for Hidamari Park Ayagawa, an urban green space spanning approximately 4,300 m² located right next to Kotoden Ayagawa Station, only about a 5‑minute walk away. It also sits near AEON Mall Ayagawa, making it perfect for a day trip combining shopping and sightseeing.
The park’s theme: Yadon (Slowpoke)—the lovable pink Pokémon. Kagawa Prefecture embraced Yadon as a mascot in 2018, due to the phonetic similarity with “udon” and its rain‑summoning lore, making it a playful symbol of the region. This synergy has spread across everything from taxis to vending machines in the prefecture.(いきたね日本)
Open since April 14, 2023, Yadon Park features imaginative Yadon‑shaped playground equipment, including inclusive playgrounds so everyone can play together—a first for Shikoku.(ツーリズム四国)
Dive into the Yadon World: 6 Magical Play Structures & Comfort Features
Visitors can enjoy six amazing Yadon‑themed attractions, built with safety and inclusivity in mind:
1.Everyone’s Yadon（”Minnano Yadon”）
A large Yadon sculpture perfect for relaxing and taking photos.
Blue Slide & Rubber‑chip Safety Flooring
A cushioned slide and soft rubber-chip landing zone for safe play.
2.Yadon’s Nest Slide – Features a giant Yadon lounging atop—ideal for fun descents.
3.Yadon Well – A well‑shaped swing structure inviting you to “play with Yadon.”
4.Waterside Hill Yadon
A sculpture of Yadon fishing with its tail.
5.Omni‑Spinner & Yadon Border Bench
Rotating play units paired with seating, including a snoozing Yadon and pals like Pal‑shelgon.
6. 3‑Seat Yadon Swing – An inclusive triple swing with Yadon lounging overhead.
Pikachu Bench – A bonus photo‑op featuring Pikachu!
The park uses rubber‑chip safety flooring around play areas, ensuring comfort and peace of mind for parents. With bright vending machines featuring Yadon and Pikachu designs, dedicated seating spots, and even restrooms within the park, it’s a well‑equipped and thoughtfully designed play zone.
📷 No Goods Sold Inside — But Explore Pokémon Manhole Art Around Town!
One key note: There are no Pokémon merchandise or souvenir shops inside the park. If you’re hoping to shop, you’ll need to visit nearby locations like the Takinomiya Roadside Station (Michi‑no‑Eki Takinomiya), which is just a 5‑minute drive away and offers its own selection of Yadon‑themed goods.
However, don’t miss the Pokéfuta—special Pokémon manhole covers scattered across Kagawa, including one near the park. These slimline artworks are a favorite among fans and photographers alike. Keep a lookout in Takamatsu, Kotohira, and Ayagawa Town, where Yadon covers are on display.
📌 Visiting Info: How to Arrive, Hours, & Parking Details
- Address: 253‑7 Kayahara, Ayagawa‑cho, Ayauta‑gun, Kagawa (former Obakuchi Pond site)
- Opening Hours: 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM daily (No holidays), free admission.(yadon.my-kagawa.jp)
- Access:
- Train: 5‑minute walk from Kotoden Ayagawa Station
- Bus: Local Ayagawa town bus, nearest stop: Kaminiishi, then few minutes walk
- Car: Signposted from Kagawa Prefecture roadways toward AEON Mall Ayagawa
- Parking:
- Park lots total ~18 spaces: 6 regular + 1 accessible on left side, 10 regular +1 accessible on right.
- Overflow: Use AEON Mall Ayagawa parking (walkable).
- Note: Unlawful use of private roads or illegal parking is prohibited. Use official lots.
🌄 Best Photo & Visit Tips for Instagram‑Worthy Shots
- Ideal times:
- Morning (7–10 AM): soft even light, minimal crowds
- Evening (5–7 PM): golden hour gives dreamy Yadon silhouettes
- Weekdays: fewer visitors → more relaxed photo ops
- Must‑snap subjects:
- Close‑ups of large lounging Yadon sculptures
- Shots where Yadon in the hill and well align facing each other
- Vending machine art, park benches, and manhole covers
- Scenes blending Yadon sculptures with Kagawa’s greenery
✅ Park Rules & Tips for a Respectful Visit
To ensure comfort and safety for everyone:
- No smoking, no open flames (such as barbecues or fireworks)
- No littering—carry out all trash
- Keep pets on a leash, clean up after them
- No unauthorized vehicles or bicycles outside designated parking
- Be respectful of neighbors: avoid loud noise, don’t enter private property
- Do not enter after closing time (8 PM)
- Lost items: valuables reported to Takamatsu West Police, others held at Ayagawa Town office for one month(town.ayagawa.lg.jp, town.ayagawa.lg.jp)
🌟 Final Thoughts: Why International Visitors Will Love Yadon Park
Yadon Park (Hidamari Park Ayagawa) is a unique blend of Pokémon magic, regional identity, and inclusive play design. It provides:
- A safe, scenic space for families and solo travelers
- Rare play experiences inspired by Slowpoke, Kagawa’s adorable mascot
- Beautiful photo zones with no crowds during off‑peak hours
- Easy access via public transit or car
- A quirky twist for fans: explore Pokéfuta art, vending machines, nearby udon shops, and more Pokémon-themed fun
Even without merchandise sold onsite, the Yadon mania in Kagawa extends across the prefecture—making this park the perfect first stop for Pokémon lovers exploring Udon Prefecture.
