The park marks the exact point where the watershed divide sits at an elevation of only 95 meters above sea level.
During high water levels, the river currents are visibly redirected into the northern and southern basins from this single point.
The name 'Miwakare' translates to 'place of parting' or 'fork in the road,' reflecting the hydrological split.
It is officially recognized as one of the lowest elevation watershed divides in the country.
Miwakare Park is the site of the unique 'Miwakare no Ichirizuka,' a geographical rarity where a single river basin splits to flow into two different oceans. The Kako River originates here, eventually flowing south into the Seto Inland Sea, while the upstream portion flows north into the Sea of Japan. This natural drainage divide occurs at the lowest altitude of any such watershed in Japan. The park commemorates this phenomenon as a designated national natural monument. Visitors can observe the stone marker and the small stream that represents this split. It serves as an educational site highlighting the local topography of the Tamba region.
The stone monument signifying the watershed divide at the center of the park.
Bring a map or GPS device to better visualize the two different sea basins represented by the flow.
The path around the divider is gravel; wear supportive walking shoes.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Tamba folk museums for deeper regional context.
Do not attempt to walk in the stream bed, as it is protected for hydrological study.
Maintain a quiet volume as it is located in a semi-residential area.
