Oomurazaki No Mori

Forest of the Great Purple Emperor

Oomurazaki no Mori is a butterfly park and information center in Ranzan. It is off the beaten path and tourist trail, except to butterfly buffs who travel great distances for the rare chance to see a Great Purple Emperor. Great Purple Emperors can only be seen in a handful of places in Japan. Ranzan is one of the better known spots in the kanto region among lepidopterists. Butterflies can only be observed in this park, under no circumstances can you trap, catch or use a net at this park. There are volunteers on site to help you find a good place to view the butterflies and also to impart information about the revered butterfly. There is a small educational center by the car park too. Parking for about seven cars which is free. June is a busy month at the butterfly park and sometimes you have to wait to get a car spot.