Huis Ten Bosch

What to know

Huis Ten Bosch (ハウステンボス) is a theme park in Nagasaki Prefecture that recreates a Dutch town. Named after a residence of the Dutch Royal Family, this spacious resort exudes a European atmosphere with picturesque canals, iconic windmills, beautiful gardens, and architecture.

Seasonal flowers enhance the scenery, making it even more attractive. Visitors can enjoy the views, ride attractions, dine at restaurants, or relax on a canal boat tour. Various events are held throughout the year, such as a tulip festival in spring and a fireworks competition in summer.

The resort is divided into two areas: the Theme Park Zone and the Harbor Zone. Both offer free and paid attractions, though most are in the Theme Park Zone. Access to the Theme Park Zone requires a park ticket, but the outdoor areas of the Harbor Zone are open to non-ticket holders except on fireworks days.

The Theme Park Zone features amusements in buildings that replicate a Dutch old town, including modern theaters with 3D technology, a haunted house, mirror maze, Ferris Wheel, and a replica of Utrecht's Dom Tower with panoramic views. The Harbor Zone's main attractions are a theater and a replica of the Palace Huis Ten Bosch, which houses an art museum.

Several European-themed hotels surround the park, such as Hotel Europe with fine dining and classical concerts, and Hotel Amsterdam inside the Theme Park Zone. Guests should check at the counter for discounted tickets to the Theme Park Zone.

Huis Ten Bosch Station and Hakata Station are connected by hourly JR limited express trains (110 minutes, around 4500 yen one way, fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass and Kyushu Rail Pass). Some trains are direct, while others require a transfer to a local train at Haiki Station, six minutes from Huis Ten Bosch Station. How to get to Fukuoka.