One sunny weekend, our family visited Funabashi Andersen Park. We wanted a place where our 2-year-old could play freely in nature, and this park was the perfect choice.
The sky was completely clear—an ideal day for an outing. The moment our child saw the wide green field and the tall windmill, their eyes lit up with excitement.
With plenty of parking and easy access from the city, it’s a great spot for families with young kids. Holding hands and carrying a water bottle, we began our slow, happy walk into the park.
Windmills, Fountains, and the Fairytale Start
Right after entering, we were welcomed by a picture-perfect scene inspired by Hans Christian Andersen’s fairy tales. A large windmill turned gently under the blue sky, surrounded by a calm pond and lush greenery—it felt like stepping into Denmark itself.
Our 2-year-old pointed up and shouted, “It’s turning!” We took family photos in front of the fountain where the sunlight sparkled through the water, then found a small waterwheel nearby. Turning it again and again, our child laughed each time—such a simple joy, but it made the moment special.
The park’s design encourages imagination and free play in nature, and you can truly feel that concept from the first steps inside.
Slides and Field Athletics — Moving Our Bodies Together
Next, we headed to the “Wanpaku Kingdom Zone”, one of the park’s most popular areas filled with playgrounds and field athletics.
We first tried the big slide, climbing all the way to the top—but once we looked down, it was much higher than expected. Our 2-year-old froze a little, feeling nervous, so we moved to the smaller toddler slide nearby instead. It was just the right height, and once they slid down safely, they laughed and shouted, “One more time!” running back up again and again.
Then came the field athletics, a real highlight for both kids and adults. Wooden bridges, rope climbs, and forest-style challenges make it feel like an outdoor adventure. Parents can join in and help, and before we knew it, we were sweating and smiling just as much as our child.
It’s the kind of play that reminds you what outdoor fun really means.
Animal Encounters and the Mini Train Ride
After all that movement, we took a break at the Animal Petting Zone. Rabbits and guinea pigs caught our child’s attention right away. They pointed and whispered “So cute,” watching the rabbits hop around with a curious smile.
Next, we hopped on the mini train that circles part of the park. As the colorful train started moving, our 2-year-old waved excitedly at the animal statues along the way, shouting “Bye-bye!” at each one. We couldn’t help but wave, too. It was a calm and heartwarming ride—a little journey inside the park.
The gentle balance between energetic play and relaxing moments is what makes Andersen Park so special.
Lunch Break — Maybe Next Time, a Picnic
By lunchtime, we were ready for a rest. We hadn’t brought a packed lunch, so we bought something from one of the park’s food stands and sat on a shady bench to enjoy it. Even a simple snack tastes better outdoors under a bright sky.
The park has plenty of casual food options like curry, noodles, and soft serve—easy choices for families.
Still, watching other families spread their picnic mats on the grass made me think, “We should bring our own lunch next time.” The big open lawns are perfect for a picnic, and it looked like such a relaxing way to enjoy the day.
Reflections on a Day to Remember
Funabashi Andersen Park turned out to be an amazing place for families with young children. From the windmill and fountains to the slides, animals, and train, every part of the day was filled with our 2-year-old’s laughter.
As parents, seeing our child explore, get curious, and try new things in nature was the best part. The park changes beautifully with the seasons—next time, we’d love to visit when the tulips bloom or the leaves turn red in autumn.
On the way home, our little one fell sound asleep in the stroller. Tired, happy, and full of memories—this park has officially earned its spot on our “let’s go again” list.
