The name Otomeyama translates to 'Maiden's Mountain,' referring to its history as an off-limits area for commoners during the Edo period.
The park serves as one of the few remaining breeding sites for fireflies within Shinjuku's urban environment.
The spring water bubbling up in the park is fed by the natural aquifers of the Musashino Plateau.
The area was designated as a 'Historical Site' by Shinjuku City to protect its unique topography and biological diversity.
Otomeyama Park is a designated historical site located on a hill formerly known as a hunting ground for the Tokugawa Shogunate. The park preserves a rare remnant of the Musashino Plateau landscape, featuring spring-fed streams and dense forest growth. It contains a protected habitat for the Hotoke-dojo (Japanese loach) and the Genji-botaru (firefly). The central pond acts as the park's focal point, surrounded by winding walking paths that navigate significant changes in elevation. Local conservation efforts focus on maintaining the water quality for the park's diverse amphibian and aquatic insect populations.
The wooden bridge overlooking the central turtle pond and the surrounding canopy.
Wear comfortable, non-slip walking shoes as the terrain involves steep, often uneven dirt paths.
Bring mosquito repellent during the summer months, as the wooded, damp environment attracts many insects.
Respect the natural habitat by staying on the marked trails and avoiding the water edges.
Do not expect a manicured, flat city garden; the park is maintained to feel like a wild, natural forest.
The park is closed to the public at night to protect the nocturnal wildlife, specifically the fireflies.
Refrain from feeding the wildlife, entering the pond water, or collecting any plants or insects.
