Go for a laidback stroll through a Japanese garden and take a journey to the stars at the city’s planetarium.
In a city blessed with gorgeous green spaces, Yamaguchi Park stands out as one of Pamplona’s most striking. Visit Yamaguchi Park to experience the serenity of its Japanese garden and to enjoy space-themed programs at Pamplona Planetarium. The park celebrates the twinning of Pamplona with the city of Yamaguchi, an event that honors St. Francis Xavier’s visit to Japan in the 1500s.
The Japanese garden occupies the parks central section, within which is a collection of some 400 trees and 600 plant species. These various species are a tribute to the four seasons of the year. Wander around the ornamental pond, cross the bridge and peer out from the azumaya wooden hut. Sit and watch the geyser shoot water up to a height of 66 feet (20 meters).
Pamplona Planetarium stands at the western edge of the park. Come here to watch movies about space and see audiovisual projections of our universe, its comets, planets and stars. Check out the exhibitions, which cover science and technology topics such as the history of astronomical telescopes. The ceiling of the exhibition hall has a magnificent stained-glass representation of the 12 signs of the zodiac.
Designed in conjunction with the planetarium is the Garden of the Galaxy. It features 500 trees planted according to the layout of the Milky Way. Each tree symbolizes things such as cosmic dust, global clusters, nebulae and stars. In the center of the trees is a fountain, which represents the Milky Way’s black hole.
Also in the park there’s a small children’s playground and exercise stations. Look for a statue of Jorge Oteiza, a revered artist credited with being a pioneer of Basque modern art.
You’ll find Yamaguchi Park southwest of Pamplona’s Old Town. Parking is available on the surrounding streets and fees may be applicable. On the park’s northeast border is Plaza Yamaguchi, a square where there are bars, restaurants and a cinema.
