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With lakeside scenery, water fun, and plenty of classic rides, Hamanako Pal Pal Amusement Park is easily one of Hamamatsu’s top family-friendly attractions.
What Is Hamanako Pal Pal?
Hamanako Pal Pal is a mid-sized amusement park located on the eastern shore of Lake Hamana (浜名湖). It offers a mix of attractions for toddlers, teens, and adults. With Kanzanji Onsen and Kanzan-ji Temple nearby, it’s easy to pair the park with other sightseeing in the area.
We visited during summer and loved how manageable the park felt compared to Japan’s larger theme parks. It had a cheerful, local vibe that kept the kids entertained without overwhelming us.
Park Highlights
- Mega Coaster – The main thrill ride with big drops and twists. We laughed and screamed the entire way.
- Kids’ Rides – Dozens of gentle attractions, including carousels and splash zones, perfect for younger children.
- Water Zone (summer only) – Splash play and water rides provided much-needed relief from the heat. If visiting in July or August, bring a change of clothes.
- Flexible Tickets – You can choose a day pass (free ride ticket) or buy individual ride tickets. We only planned to try a few attractions, so paying per ride was a good option.
The park felt friendly and relaxed, without the long lines you might expect at Fuji-Q or Universal Studios Japan.
Things to Do Nearby at Lake Hamana
We recommend making Pal Pal part of a day around Lake Hamana. Nearby highlights include:
- Kanzan-ji Temple – A small temple with beautiful lake views, just a short walk from the park.
- Kanzanji Ropeway – The only ropeway in Japan that crosses a lake, connecting Pal Pal to the Hamanako Orgel Museum.
- Kanzanji Onsen – Several hot spring resorts nearby, perfect for a post-park soak or overnight stay.
Traveler Tip: In summer, arrive early and plan breaks in shaded areas. The sun around the lake can be intense, and some rides have limited cover.
How to Get to Hamanako Pal Pal
By Train and Bus
From Hamamatsu Station, take the Entetsu Bus bound for Kanzanji Onsen (舘山寺温泉) and get off at “Pal Pal”. The ride takes about 40 minutes.
By Car
About 30 minutes from Hamamatsu Station. Free and paid parking lots are available near the entrance.
Pro Tip: In summer and on holidays, roads around Kanzanji can be busy. Aim for early arrival or use the bus to avoid parking delays.
Is Hamanako Pal Pal Worth Visiting?
If you’re traveling with kids or want a lighthearted break from Hamamatsu’s castles, museums, and factories, then we recommend making a stop. The park is just the right size for a half-day visit, and it combines easily with nearby hot springs and lakeside sightseeing.
Our family enjoyed the Mega Coaster, water rides, and lakeside atmosphere. Hamanako Pal Pal may not be world-famous, but it delivers simple, joyful fun for all ages.
More to Explore Nearby
As a major amusement park located directly on the shores of the lake, Hamanako Pal Pal is a key recreational spot, positioning you near local hot spring resorts, historical landmarks, and unique regional food attractions.
- Lake Hamana – Discover the vast saltwater lake nearby, offering beautiful scenery and opportunities for marine recreation and relaxation.
- Hamamatsu Castle – Visit this historically significant castle, a former home of Tokugawa Ieyasu and a symbol of the city’s past.
- Hamamatsu Unagi – Explore the city’s famous local delicacy, freshwater eel (unagi), which is sourced from nearby Lake Hamana.
- Hamamatsu Gyoza – Dive into the local culinary scene by learning more about this famous regional specialty, often cooked in a distinctive circular presentation.
