Toyama Municipal Family Park

About this riding club

Toyama Municipal Family Park is located within Shiroyama Park in the Kureha Hills, west of Toyama City. Planning progressed through the Toyama City Shiroyama Park Master Plan in March 1971 (Japan Parks and Open Space Association), the Shiroyama Northern Zoo Concept in March 1974 (the same association), and the Zoo Master Plan in March 1978 (World Wildlife Fund Japan Committee). A new plan for the Family Park animal and management zones (World Wildlife Fund Japan Committee) was then incorporated into the Shiroyama land-use concept in December 1980, and the Family Park construction master plan was approved in February 1981.
The master plan aimed to “nurture emotional sensitivity and a scientific mindset in nature,” “encourage familiarity with animals,” and “provide a place to relax, play and enjoy leisure.” Three areas were planned accordingly: an animal area, a lawn plaza and an amusement area.
Construction under this plan began in September 1982 and was completed on April 27, 1984. The park opened the following day, April 28.
To spread knowledge of local plants and animals, Family Park focuses on animals native to Toyama and Japan, displaying them in settings that illustrate their ecology. It also operates a local-animal zoo exhibiting small nocturnal native animals and carries out environmental surveys and conservation work.
The park also participates in wildlife species-conservation programs from a global perspective. Since opening in 1984, it has been cherished by residents as a place for families to enjoy themselves and relax amid the lush natural environment of the satoyama countryside.
It will continue developing projects around the themes of animals, satoyama and the local community, working toward a new kind of satoyama that brings vitality to both people and forests.