Overview
Location and Climate
Futomi Flower Fishing Center is located at 67 Futomihama, Kamogawa City, Chiba Prefecture. The facility faces a traditional fishing village in the warm coastal area of Futomi, which has long attracted visitors, particularly during the spring tourist season.
Current Facilities
The facility currently operates as a sea fishing pond, where visitors can enjoy a fishing experience in a natural seaside setting.
Fish caught at the facility are generally subject to a catch-and-release policy. This makes fishing a recreational experience that emphasizes enjoyment while respecting the marine environment.
History of the Facility
From Its Opening to the Closure of the Botanical Garden
The original Futomi Flower Center opened in October 1965 as a municipal facility operated by the former Eimi Town. It subsequently developed around its botanical garden and became a popular attraction where visitors could enjoy colorful flowers as well as opportunities to interact with animals.
Major Milestones
- October 31, 1974: Construction of a new restaurant and rest house was completed.
- March 29, 1978: Renovation of the greenhouse was completed.
- March 20, 1982: Construction of additional connected greenhouses was completed.
- February 22, 1984: The Emperor and Empress visited the facility.
- March 1991: A multi-story parking facility with capacity for approximately 240 vehicles was completed.
- April 2004: Management of the facility was transferred from the municipality to a private operator.
- December 31, 2018: The botanical garden was suspended and effectively closed.
Reopening and the Facility Today
Following the declaration of a state of emergency related to the COVID-19 pandemic, the facility temporarily closed on April 19, 2020. It reopened on October 9, 2021.
Today, the facility continues to welcome visitors primarily as a fishing attraction, providing an opportunity to enjoy a seaside leisure activity in the beautiful coastal surroundings of Kamogawa.
The Former Facilities and Their Attractions
Botanical Garden
The botanical garden was one of the main attractions from the center’s earliest days. Its colorful displays of flowers attracted many tourists and contributed to the facility’s popularity.
However, the buildings and structures deteriorated over the years. By 2021, some areas had become unsafe, and access to the former botanical garden was prohibited.
Other Former Facilities
- Dog and Cat Land: A facility where visitors could interact with dogs and cats.
- Pet Hotel: Accommodation where visitors could leave their dogs or cats while traveling.
- Bloom Cafe and Restaurant: Dining facilities where visitors could enjoy meals and refreshments.
Access
Transportation
- By train: Approximately 5 minutes on foot from JR Uchibo Line Futomi Station.
- By bus: Get off at the Flower Center stop served by Kamogawa Nitto Bus.
- By car: The facility is located just off the branch of Chiba Prefectural Route 247.
Nearby Attractions
- Niiemon-jima Island: A historic island where visitors can experience the area’s natural scenery and cultural heritage.
- Futomi Fishing Port and Hamanabuto Fishing Port: Local fishing ports where visitors can discover the area’s seafood and fishing culture.
Summary
Futomi Flower Fishing Center has a long history as a tourist attraction surrounded by the natural beauty of Kamogawa’s Pacific coast. Although its former botanical garden is no longer open, the facility continues to operate as a fishing attraction.
With its location facing the ocean, it offers a relaxed way to enjoy a seaside activity with family or friends. Combining a visit with nearby attractions such as Niiemon-jima Island and the local fishing ports can make for a rewarding day exploring the coastal area of Kamogawa.