The park borders the largest burial mound in Japan, the Nintoku-tenno-ryo Kofun, which is shaped like a keyhole.
The Japanese Garden within the park was designed by the renowned landscape architect Iwakuni Kaniemon.
The garden layout is based on the 'chisen kaiyu' style, featuring a central pond surrounded by a walking circuit.
The site includes a designated 'Cherry Blossom Grove' containing hundreds of mature trees.
The park grounds physically connect several distinct Kofun (ancient tomb) sites that were historically separated.
The Sakai City Museum located inside provides in-depth historical context regarding the surrounding UNESCO tomb sites.
The tea house architecture reflects the Sukiya-zukuri style, emphasizing natural materials and minimalist design.
Daisen Park is a sprawling green space situated directly between the Daisen Kofun (Emperor Nintoku's Tomb) and the Kami-ishizu-cho Kofun. It functions as a public buffer zone surrounding the UNESCO World Heritage Mozu-Furuichi Kofun Group. The park grounds house the Sakai City Museum and the formal Japanese Garden, which features a path-linked pond design. The Japanese Garden utilizes water features and traditional landscaping techniques to represent the changing seasons. The park contains over 1,000 cherry trees, making it a prominent destination for spring hanami. It also incorporates a dedicated tea house where visitors can experience traditional matcha service. The terrain is flat and paved, providing accessibility for pedestrians and cyclists traversing the area. It acts as the central hub for the larger Mozu Kofun area, connecting various ancient burial mounds via walking paths.
The red bridge overlooking the central pond in the Japanese Garden.
Visit the Sakai City Museum first to understand the historical context of the massive tombs visible from the park.
Bring comfortable walking shoes as the area between the park and the various Kofun burial mounds involves significant walking distance.
The park provides free public restrooms and hydration stations throughout the main plaza areas.
Do not attempt to climb or walk onto the Kofun burial mounds themselves, as they are sacred protected archaeological sites.
The Japanese Garden and the museum within the park are typically closed on Mondays.
Maintain quiet voices near the tea house; smoking is prohibited throughout the garden paths.
