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Among the parks and recreation areas in Yokosuka, there is a unique place called "Umi Kaze Koen" -- using Japanese kanji characters, it is: うみかぜ公園.  "Umi" means the ocean, "Kaze" means wind/breeze, and "Koen" means park.  Umi Kaze park faces Tokyo Bay, and Saru Shima (猿島, Monkey Island) can be seen right offshore, as well as the comings and goings of all kinds of transiting ships.  Apart from the scenery and fresh ocean breezes, the park boasts many unique and enjoyable features.  First is a large green grass area, where visitors often set-up tents and have barbecues, enjoying a bit of "urban camping".  There is also a children's area with playground equipment, on which to climb and slide, etc.  The most unique feature of Umi Kaze Koen is a paved area which has been designed for skateboarding, BMX cycling, basketball, and tennis practice.  There are various ramps, rails, basketball hoops installed around the area, and it is always crowded with young people practicing their skateboards and other sports skills.  The park is located only a short driving distance from the U.S. Navy Base and has a large pay parking lot.  It is also equipped with well-maintained public restrooms.  Of interest, located right next to Umi Kaze park is the "LIVIN" shopping mall, and many visitors use the supermarket there to buy picnic and barbecue supplies.  Also nearby is the "NOJIMA" shopping mall, which has a "Toys R Us" store along with a supermarket and other retailers.  Umi Kaze Koen is a convenient place to visit and relax in an open space, away from all the crowded buildings.  We hope you will get a chance to go there, while you live in the Yokosuka area!

Written by Goodfield