Japan’s First Wooden Roller Coaster — Kokura Shiroishi Plateau PARK!

Text and photos by /MATCHA

In Oita Prefecture, located in northern Kyushu, aside from well-known tourist spots like Beppu Onsen and Yufuin, there’s also Japan’s first wooden roller coaster that has been featured by various TV stations — located at Kokura Shiroishi Plateau PARK. The park boasts over 36 attractions, including both thrilling rides and family-friendly options. Unlike other large theme parks, you can almost ride everything at Kokura Shiroishi Plateau PARK without waiting in long lines!

Popular Thrill Rides

1. Jupiter

Known as a work of art, the Jupiter roller coaster is the park’s most popular attraction and Japan’s first wooden roller coaster, which has been widely covered by the media. Its track structure made from 60,000 wooden beams not only delivers an intense thrill but is also one of the most photogenic spots during sunset.

2. Poseidon30

Dropping from 30 meters above ground, Poseidon30 creates a spectacular splash of water. The visual and sensory experience is amazing, and even better — the fully transparent ride car ensures your clothes stay dry. There’s a viewing platform facing the waterway, so even spectators on the ground get to enjoy the excitement along with the riders.

3. Newton

With a vertical drop from 40 meters, Newton requires almost no wait to ride because just watching it gets your heart racing. The slow ascent to the top offers beautiful views of the park, but in less than two seconds, Newton plummets down rapidly. You’ll barely have time to scream before you hit the ground — are you up for the challenge?

4. ICE WORLD

What’s it like in a world of minus 30 degrees? On a hot summer day when temperatures hit 35°C and you’re drenched in sweat, stepping into ICE WORLD takes less than five seconds to make all that sweat vanish. It's the first time you'll truly understand freezing cold. This icy experience lasts less than a minute, but it was enough to make our MATCHA editor eager to escape!

5. Age of Discovery – Kijimaru

A nostalgic ride for kids and adults alike. Inspired by the Age of Discovery, this mini pirate ship ride simulates the gentle rocking of a real vessel. When the boat sways, staff members often joke, “Why is it so wobbly? Should we increase the movement?” Then they reveal that the most exciting part is yet to come!

Popular Family Rides

1. Gocart Go-Karts

Choose between single or double-seater go-karts. The left pedal is the brake, and the right is the accelerator. Control your speed, follow the set course, and enjoy the scenic beauty of hydrangea flowers along the way.

2. Skymerry

Skymerry slowly ascends and then spins 360 degrees. Designed in the shape of a giant bird, you can see adorable birds in their nests as you rise. It's suitable for all kinds of visitors in sunny, rainy, winter, or summer weather. The indoor area allows free movement.

3. Chapuchaちゃぷちゃ

A water play facility where you don’t need to change into swimwear. The pool is shallow, only 20 cm deep, and equipped with air boats, inflatable rollers, water slides, and water guns, giving kids plenty of ways to splash around and have fun in the shallow water.

4. Kids Driving School

A miniature driving school modeled after real roads, designed for children to learn how to drive while understanding traffic rules and safety tips. Complete the mini driving course and earn a one-day driver’s license!

5. Kiddyplane – Little Pilots

Hop onto the Kiddyplane and enjoy a bumpy flight experience with ups and downs. It’s a ride perfect for parent-child duos to experience being little pilots together.

Conclusion

There are so many fun attractions in the park that if you're visiting with kids, you don't have to buy a pass for everything — just purchase tickets for the rides you want. If you do want a pass, consider buying it at a convenience store beforehand to save 300 yen. The park also offers scheduled theater performances. If you plan to watch a show, check the schedule in advance and arrive early to secure a good seat.

Author: MATCHA
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