Hinoki Land Guide: A Taste of Japan in Chiang Mai
Chai Prakan | Chiang Mai Province
Experience a little taste of Japan in the mountains of northern Thailand. Hinoki Land is a unique Japanese-inspired cultural park featuring traditional architecture, beautiful gardens, iconic photo spots, and family-friendly attractions, all set against the backdrop of Chiang Mai’s peaceful countryside.
Why Visit
Hinoki Land offers one of Thailand’s most unusual cultural attractions. Designed to recreate the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese village, the park combines impressive architecture, beautifully landscaped gardens, and interactive experiences into a relaxing destination suitable for visitors of all ages. Whether you’re interested in photography, Japanese culture, or simply looking for somewhere different to explore, Hinoki Land makes an enjoyable stop while travelling through northern Thailand.
What to Expect
Expect beautifully maintained gardens, peaceful walking paths, impressive Japanese-inspired buildings, and plenty of photo opportunities throughout the park. Visitors can explore traditional architecture, feed colourful koi fish, hire a Yukata kimono, browse souvenir shops, and enjoy Japanese or Thai cuisine overlooking the landscaped grounds. The relaxed atmosphere makes it equally enjoyable for couples, families, and solo travellers.
Key Info
Hinoki Land is a Japanese-inspired privately-owned park with striking architecture and stunning views.
Chia Prakan
Chiang Mai
8am – 5pm
Daily
80 – 150
Entry Fee
Contents
Is Hinoki Land suitable for children?
Yes. Families will find plenty of open space, interactive attractions, and photo opportunities suitable for all ages.
How long should I spend at Hinoki Land?
Most visitors spend between two and three hours exploring the park.
Can I hire traditional Japanese clothing?
Yes. Yukata hire is available for both adults and children, allowing visitors to explore the park in traditional Japanese dress.
Is there food available?
Yes. The park has cafés and restaurants serving both Thai and Japanese cuisine.
Is Hinoki Land worth visiting?
If you’re travelling through northern Chiang Mai Province or heading towards Fang or Doi Ang Khang, Hinoki Land makes a unique and relaxing stop that offers something completely different from Thailand’s usual attractions.
Getting There
How to Get to Hinoki Land
Hinoki Land is located in Chai Prakan District, approximately 115 kilometres north of Chiang Mai city along Highway 107. The attraction is easily accessible by car or motorcycle and is often combined with a visit to Fang, Doi Ang Khang, or other destinations in northern Chiang Mai Province.
Posts & Detailed GPS Guides for this region
A Taste of Japan & the Glorious Thai/Burma Border
About
About Hinoki Land
Hinoki Land officially opened on 4 October 2018 with the aim of sharing Japanese culture, architecture, and traditions in an authentic and accessible setting. Built by a private Thai owner with a passion for Japan, the park recreates many iconic Japanese landmarks while blending them into the natural scenery of northern Thailand.
Named after the prized Japanese Hinoki cypress, the park celebrates traditional Japanese craftsmanship and aesthetics, offering visitors the feeling of stepping into another country without leaving Thailand.
Exploring the Park
Explore Hinoki Land
Covering more than 83 rai (approximately 13 hectares), Hinoki Land is designed around peaceful lakes, gardens, and traditional Japanese architecture.
Visitors enter through a striking replica of Tokyo’s famous Kaminarimon Gate before passing beneath 88 vibrant red Torii gates that lead towards the park’s centrepiece. Along the way you’ll discover flower gardens, scenic bridges, walking paths, souvenir shops, cafés, and numerous viewpoints designed for photography.
One of the park’s most recognisable landmarks is the enormous Maneki-neko, or Lucky Cat, which has become one of Hinoki Land’s most photographed attractions.
This replica of the Kaminarimon arch in front of Kinkaku-ji Temple looks convincingly like you have just stepped into Japan! This park really is a dream for photographers.
The Castle
The Castle in Hinoki Land
The centrepiece of Hinoki Land is its impressive golden castle overlooking a tranquil lake.
Inspired by Kyoto’s famous Kinkaku-ji (Golden Pavilion), the three-storey structure reflects beautifully across the water and serves as the park’s signature landmark. Visitors can explore inside the building, admire panoramic views across the gardens, and learn more about the inspiration behind the architecture.
Although it is not an exact replica, the building successfully captures the elegance and atmosphere of one of Japan’s most famous cultural landmarks.
Activities
Things to Do in Hinoki Land
Although Hinoki Land is relatively compact, there are plenty of ways to spend a relaxing few hours.
Walk Through the Torii Gates
One of the park’s most photographed areas, the vibrant red Torii gates create a beautiful entrance inspired by Japan’s famous shrine pathways.
Feed the Koi Fish
The central lake is home to hundreds of colourful koi carp. Food can be purchased on-site, making this a popular activity for both adults and children.
Visit the Lucky Cat
The enormous Maneki-neko statue symbolises good fortune and prosperity and has become one of Hinoki Land’s iconic photo locations.
Browse the Gift Shops
Several small shops sell Japanese-inspired souvenirs, local handicrafts, snacks, and gifts.
Hire Yukata Kimono
One of Hinoki Land’s most popular activities is dressing in a traditional Japanese Yukata.
Both men’s and women’s outfits are available to hire, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the Japanese atmosphere while taking photographs throughout the park. Changing rooms and lockers are provided, making the experience quick and convenient.
Food & Drink
Eateries at Hinoki Land
Several cafés and restaurants are located within the park, serving both Thai and Japanese dishes at reasonable prices.
Whether you’re looking for a quick coffee, traditional Japanese desserts, or a full meal overlooking the gardens, there are plenty of options available during your visit.
Practical Tips
Tips for Hinoki Land
In Closing
Hinoki Land offers a surprising blend of Japanese culture, scenic gardens, and family-friendly attractions in the heart of northern Thailand. Whether you’re stopping for a couple of hours or incorporating it into a longer road trip, it’s a peaceful destination that combines beautiful surroundings with plenty of memorable experiences.
Posts & Detailed GPS Guides for this region
A Taste of Japan & the Glorious Thai/Burma Border
I hope you found the Hinoki Land guide useful, if so, drop a comment and if you have questions I haven’t covered, drop them in the comments below.