Overview
Nationally renowned for its sunflower festival, Kiyose City is nonetheless a small city, though full of charm. Feudal homes, a taste for sweet strawberries and a curious art sculpture all reveal themselves to visitors who take the time to explore. Here is an easy introduction to some of the history and landmarks of Kiyose City and how to reach them.
Former Morita Family Residence
Listed as one of the city's Tangible Cultural Properties, the Former Morita Family Residence was originally built a further south in Noshio before being dismantled and reconstructed in its current location. Feudal designs elements, including thatched straw roof, hearths and even an old weaving machine all feature.
A 7-minute ride from Higashi-Tokorozawa Station on the JR Musashino Line.
Kanayama Water Regulation Dam
Despite the heavey sounded name, the Kanayama Water Regulation Dam is actually a popular spot for bird watchers. Surrounded by wooden walking trails and connected to a small island in the centre, the area attracts many locals out for a casual stroll. Egrets, ducks and kingfishers are regular guests.
A 20-minute walk from Higashi-Tokorozawa Station on the JR Musashino Line.
Tanaka Strawberry Farm
A popular fruit picking destination for locals, the Tanaka Strawberry Farm offers up seven different varieties of strawberries, including the highly sought after tochiotome and the much larger beni-hoppe varieties. Their raised beds make collecting the strawberries easy during the first few months of the year when in season.
A 10-minute no.61 bus ride from Kiyose Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line.
Yonhon no Ki
A curious creation by the late artist Tsuchitani Takeshi, the Yonhon no Ki is a four-pillared sculpture representing an expression of nature. Takeshi was known for his use of metal and stone and, along with wood, the sculpture's tilted form is said to give the impression of life and as such, is a peculiar representation of the natural world.
An 8-minute walk from Kiyose Station on the Seibu Ikebukuro Line.
