Higashi-Shinagawa Seaside Park is a serene oasis blending art and nature, conveniently located near Shinagawa Station and Tennozu Isle Station. It’s an ideal spot to escape Tokyo’s hustle and bustle or to unwind before a flight from Haneda Airport.
History and Overview
Situated at the confluence of the Meguro River and the Tennozu South Canal, this water-rich park began development in 1995 and fully opened in 2007.
Highlights
Whale Slide
Inspired by a whale that strayed into Shinagawa during Japan’s Edo period, the park features a whale-shaped slide. In 1798, after a stormy night, a 16-meter-long whale was found off the coast of Shinagawa. Local fishermen collaborated to guide the whale into shallow waters near Tennozu and successfully captured it alive. This event quickly became the talk of Edo (now Tokyo), even attracting the interest of Shogun Tokugawa Ienari. The whale was later buried at a shrine, and a memorial was erected. This incident is remembered as one of Edo’s three major animal events. The whale slide serves as a reminder of this historical episode.
Miffy Flower Garden
The park includes an area themed around Miffy, the beloved rabbit character created by Dutch author Dick Bruna. Known as “Miffy Park,” this section features playground equipment and flower beds adorned with Miffy’s likeness, making it a popular spot for children. The “Miffy Flower Plaza” offers a space where visitors can immerse themselves in Miffy’s world, with play zones and waterside areas. Play zones include Miffy-themed train equipment, slides, and seesaws, while the waterside boardwalk showcases Miffy panels and animal-themed flower beds. This design makes the park especially appealing to families and Miffy enthusiasts.
Rooftop Garden
Adjacent to the park, the Higashi-Shinagawa Pump Station’s rooftop garden is open to the public from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, offering panoramic views of Tennozu, Rainbow Bridge, and Odaiba.
Events
Shinagawa Canal Festival
Held annually in spring and autumn, primarily at Higashi-Shinagawa Seaside Park and Tennozu Park, this large-scale event is cherished by locals. The autumn festival often features a fireworks display. Activities include:
Waterside Activities: Cherry blossom cruises, fireworks viewing boats, E-boat and canoe experiences.
Sports Events: Children’s sports activities, with professional athletes providing direct coaching.
Stage Performances: Local children’s dance performances and live shows by professional artists.
Fireworks Display: In autumn, approximately 8,000 fireworks light up the night sky.
Access
Tokyo Monorail “Tennozu Isle Station”: Approximately 6-minute walk.
Rinkai Line “Tennozu Isle Station”: Approximately 8-minute walk.
Keikyu Line “Shinbanba Station”: Approximately 10-minute walk.
