Skate Parks in Kansai

Apr 19, 2021

Skate Parks in Kansai

Skateboarding has grown in popularity across Japan in recent years increased by the fact that it is due to make its debut as a sport at the Tokyo Olympics this summer. Skate parks are not as common as in the US or in Europe, where they can be found in many major towns and cities. In Japan, skateboarding facilities are often in purpose-built indoor spaces. You can find a few skate parks in the bigger cities across Kansai. Here is a selection of some of the best.

Good Skates Park, Kobe

This indoor and outdoor park on Kobe’s Rokko Island was built over 25 years ago and is one of Japan’s biggest. It hosts numerous big skating events and showcases. Part of the Good Skates brand, this park (known as the “g” skate park) is suitable not just for skateboarders but also BMXers, rollerblades, and scooters. Obstacles include half-pipes, kink rails, and grind boxes. There are lessons available (from 2,500 yen) for beginners and those wanting to hone their skills. The park is open daily from midday to midnight (10:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. on Sundays). Usage fees are 1,700 yen with discounts for students. Equipment such as boards and helmets are available to rent.

Website: http://www.goodskates.com/

Hiuchigata Skate Park, Kyoto

This free outdoor concrete park was opened in 2004 in partnership with the local neighborhood association. It’s quite a small facility consisting of a half-pipe leading into a big concrete bowl, plus there is also a ledge and a pyramid. The park is around a 10-minute walk from Takeda station. It is frequently used by a friendly group of locals, including skilled boarders who sometimes run training sessions.

Website: https://kska.net

EKL Skateboard Park, Osaka

EKL is a big new indoor facility in Neyagawa City that opened in 2019. It is an all-around skate park with an on-site skate shop that can be enjoyed by skaters of all ages, from beginner to highly skilled. There are features for both juniors and adults, including a downhill rail, an aerial jump bar, and various boxes and flat blanks. On the weekends, teachers are on hand to offer lessons and advice to kids and beginners. Visitors can also partake in a free 30-minute trial. The largely wooden facilities are also suitable for BMX bikes.

Website: https://e-kl.jp/

HMC Skatepark, Osaka

Close to Fukaebashi Station in Higashinari Ward, the HMC Skatepark is another indoor facility adorned with plenty of cool street art. Here, you will find an assortment of ramps, including mini ramps, kickers, and boxes that you can rent for between 1,000 – 1,500 yen until late in the evening. Juniors, novices, and BMX riders also welcome, and lessons run on the weekends. Equipment is available to rent, and protectors are provided free of charge. A nice little bonus is that the place is air-conditioned, which is great in the summer.

Website: http://hmc-skatepark.com/

Ryo Matsubara from Tokyo, JAPAN, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons