Have you heard of Nishi-Ikebukuro Park?
It's different from Ikebukuro Nishiguchi Park (commonly known as West Gate Park) in front of the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre.
To get to Nishi-Ikebukuro Park, go out the West Exit of Ikebukuro Station on various lines and head behind the Tokyo Metropolitan Theatre and Nishi-Ikebukuro Post Office.
It's a bit complicated, but the park is divided into two sections across the road. On the Ikebukuro Police Station side, there's a large catchball field enclosed by a fence (open from 9:00 to 17:00).
This time, I visited the section opposite the catchball field.
Entering the park from the red brick entrance on the south side, a relaxing space surrounded by trees opened up before me.
The park was developed in 1989 along with the construction of an underground bicycle parking area, and it functions as a bicycle parking area near the west exit of Ikebukuro.
There were three two-seater benches set up on the fence side of the park.
These weather-resistant benches seem perfect for having lunch or taking a break near the west exit of Ikebukuro.
And in front, there was a familiar bee-shaped playground equipment. Apparently, it's called a rocking toy.
There was a surprising lineup of playground equipment, including two slides, an adventure-type playground, and swings.
Many families with children use it, and I think it's an environment where you can feel safer than in West Gate Park.
Next, I went to the north side of the park.
It was spacious, with enough room for children to run around.
There are also public restrooms.
There are stone benches near the clock tower, which can seat about eight people.
I saw some people having a picnic with their families.
This is... Tarzan!
I think it's rare to find Tarzan-type playground equipment within walking distance of a station in the city center!
Pen-ta couldn't help but play too (lol)
There's also playground equipment where you can do mini-bouldering.
If you're a bit hesitant to go to a bouldering gym, you can enjoy it here♪
By the way, there are benches for children under the large slide in the center of the park.
It's safe even when it rains, so when I was a kid, I probably would have been playing Game Boy here...
There were also stone benches near the park entrance on the Marui side, which could seat about 10 people.
It can be used as a place to eat lunch in Ikebukuro and is a perfect park for families to take a break!
So, why not try using it as a resting place near the west exit of Ikebukuro?