An Amusement Park Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea
Situated on elevated ground overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, Washuzan Highland offers a distinctive combination of panoramic views and exciting attractions. Highlights include a water slide pool, inline skating, and the park’s signature samba shows. Its varied entertainment makes it a popular destination for families, couples, and thrill-seekers alike.
The Brazilian Park Experience
One of the park’s defining features is its Brazilian atmosphere. Samba shows featuring dancers from Brazil are held every day, welcoming visitors with lively rhythms and energetic performances. Guests can enjoy the festive music while exploring the rides and attractions, creating an experience that blends amusement park excitement with the spirit of Brazilian entertainment.
Thrilling Rides and Activities
The Exciting Sky Cycle
One of Washuzan Highland’s best-known attractions is the Sky Cycle, a bicycle-style ride that visitors propel by pedaling. Suspended approximately 16 meters above the ground, the ride offers spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea below. The combination of height, open-air exposure, and sweeping scenery has earned it a reputation among visitors as one of the world’s scariest attractions.
Other Popular Attractions
Back Nanja: A roller coaster that travels backward, offering an especially thrilling ride.
Standing Coaster: A roller coaster ridden while standing. Depending on the operating schedule, the same track is also used for Back Nanja.
Ultra Twister: A roller coaster featuring sharp turns and steep drops.
Turbo Drop: A thrill ride that plunges riders from a height of approximately 60 meters.
Bungee Jumping: An adrenaline-filled challenge for visitors looking to test their courage.
Seasonal Spiral Slider Pool
During summer, the park opens its Spiral Slider Pool, a popular water attraction that visitors can enjoy without bringing their own equipment. Events featuring samba rhythms are also held around the pool, adding to the lively atmosphere and providing fun for the whole family.
History and Development
From a Roadside Stop to an Amusement Park
Washuzan Highland originally began as a roadside drive-in. Following the opening of the Washuzan Skyline in 1970, now known as Okayama Prefectural Route 393, Washuzan Kōen Line, the amusement park officially opened on August 13, 1971.
Over the years, the park expanded its facilities with attractions such as a bowling alley, roller coasters, a Ferris wheel, and an observation tower. In 1986, the grounds were enlarged and the park underwent a further renovation, establishing the foundation for its modern entertainment facilities.
Transformation into a Brazilian-Themed Park
Brazilian samba shows were introduced in 1987, and the park was relaunched as a Brazilian-themed attraction in 2006. The concept was inspired by founder Hisashi Nagayama, who was impressed by samba performances he saw in Brazil and invited a professional Brazilian samba team to Japan.
Today, eight dancers are based at the park, and samba shows continue to be performed daily. These performances remain one of the park’s most distinctive features, setting Washuzan Highland apart from other amusement parks in Japan.
Access and Facilities
How to Get There
From JR Kojima Station on the JR West Honshi-Bisan Line, take the Shimoden Bus on the Shimotsui Loop Line, known as the Tokohai-go, and get off at Washuzan Highland Yūenchi-mae bus stop. The journey takes approximately 10 minutes.
Restaurants, Shops, and Other Facilities
Restaurants and Cafés: Four dining outlets are available throughout the park.
Shops: Two shops offer souvenirs and other items for visitors.
Game Areas: Two game corners provide additional entertainment.
Bowling Alley: The park also features Highland Bowl, a bowling facility for visitors who want to enjoy activities beyond the rides.
Appearances in Film and Television
Washuzan Highland has appeared in a number of Japanese television programs and productions. Notable examples include the television series Ultraman Ace, in Episode 15, titled “Summer Mystery Series: The Curse of the Black Crab”; the police drama Seibu Keisatsu Part III; the variety program Himitsu no Kenmin SHOW in its Okayama feature; and Moyamoya Summers 2, in which the Brazilian samba team appeared during the Kurashiki and Kojima episode.