Nogawa Park

Unilocal 100 Challenge 2015 — ³³⁄₁₀₀
Nogawa Park is located in western Tokyo bordering on Mitaka (east), Koganei (north) and Fuchu (west, south) cities. It actually used to be part of the same grounds that are now ICU (International Christian University), and during that time, it was a full size 18-​hole golf course. That explains the numerous, long and expansive stretches of green (fairways) surrounded by groves of trees.
Now the park is dedicated to providing varied recreational spaces and facilities for the residents of the surrounding neighborhoods. You’ll find this a great place for individual relaxation, bicycling, quiet walks, nature exploring in addition to BBQs and tennis.
Short story:
+ Amenities: ⁵⁄₅ stars (pay parking available accessed off Hitomi kaido (see map); expansive green areas; recently refurbished Visitors Center; refreshment stand selling hot and cold foods, ice cream and drinks; playground and outdoor exercise equipment; tennis courts; tennis practice wall; designated gardens and nature preserve areas)
+ Access: ⁴⁄₅ (although there is pay parking available, the lot fills up quickly so it is best to come early, by bicycle or on foot. Several buses from the JR Chuo line (north), Keio line (south), Seibu line (west) are also available
+ Facilities 4.5÷5 (in addition to the amenities mentioned above, picnic shelters, some with BBQ pits are available — make are reservation online, by phone or at the Visitor Center. Same goes for the tennis courts and designated group BBQ area)
Long story:
I’ve used this park for over 20 years and it is much larger in area than it appears, as there is a second half of the park on the north side of Tohachi-​doro. The facilities are sparse on the north side other than a small visitor center, restrooms and a nature preserve area, in addition to expansive green areas.
On the south side are the main facilities and you’ll often find the playground equipment and tennis courts full on weekends. Be sure to make a reservation if you want to play tennis or have a group BBQ.
One other attraction is Nogawa, a river that runs from Tama Lake to the northwest through the middle of the park on its way to the Tama River to the south. You’ll see lots of seasonal flowers, vegetation and wildlife in the park but especially so along the riverbanks.
Overall, the appeal of the park is the many paved paths wandering through groves and small forests of trees alternated with open green areas. It is quite enjoyable to visit throughout the year to experience the changing of the seasons throughout the park. Unlike other large parks in the Tokyo, it is not over-​managed by too many facilities — that in itself leads to simpler expectations.