A miniature park in Nagaizumi, Japan, has earned a prestigious spot in the Guinness World Records as the smallest park on the planet. Spanning just 2.6 square feet (0.24 square meters), this tiny green haven features a patch of grass, two stone plaques, and a small stool where visitors can sit and enjoy the minimalist landscape.
Nestled near Nagaizumi Town Hall in Shizuoka Prefecture, the park has quietly existed since 1988. However, it wasn’t until recently that it was officially recognized as a world record holder, dethroning Portland’s Mill Ends Park. For decades, Mill Ends Park held the title with a modest two-meter diameter and a single tree surrounded by a few plants.
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The creation of the park has an interesting backstory. According to Shuji Koyama, team leader of Nagaizumi’s construction management division, it was inspired by a town staff member’s visit to the United States in the 1980s. After seeing Mill Ends Park in Portland, they were motivated to bring back the idea of creating an even smaller park in their town.
To receive Guinness World Records’ recognition, the park had to meet specific criteria, including being a green area where at least one person can relax. A professional surveyor confirmed the park’s dimensions last month, officially cementing its place in history. Locals and tourists alike have long referred to it as ‘the world’s smallest park’, making it a quirky landmark for photo-seeking visitors.
Shuji Koyama hopes that the park will continue to thrive with the support of the community while boosting its appeal on social media to attract more tourists.
