Abandoned Japanese Hotel, Formerly a Religious-Themed Amusement Park, Shrouded in Mystery
Exploring the Abandoned Utopia Kaga: A Journey Through Time
Nestled in the picturesque Ishikawa Prefecture, Japan, lies an intriguing relic of the past - Utopia Kaga, once a grand religious-themed amusement park. Opened in 1987 with a lofty budget of around 28 billion yen (£141 million), the park aimed to provide a unique blend of spiritual teachings and amusement park attractions, creating an unparalleled religious and spiritual entertainment experience [2].
However, despite its ambitious vision, Utopia Kaga's story did not have a fairytale ending. The park closed its doors in 2005, leaving behind a frozen-in-time tableau that continues to captivate visitors even today [1].
Stepping into Utopia Kaga is like stepping back in time. Tatami rooms in the hotel remain untouched, with calendars still on walls and toy dispensers continuing to spill out toys [1]. In the time-capsule rooms of the hotel, wooden hangers are seen perfectly hung in wardrobes, duvet covers remain folded on top of beds, and fridges lay intact and unplugged nearby [1].
One of the most striking features of the hotel is the Raken Hall, home to 1000 Buddha statues with unique expressions [2]. The resort also boasted a museum showcasing sculptures and lacquerware, a 240ft statue of Kaga Daikannon, and a golden pagoda [2].
Exploring the complex, Josh, a YouTuber from the United States, discovered a building containing a model of a Middle Eastern land, complete with sand, miniature camels, and palm trees [1]. He described Utopia Kaga as a surreal place, resembling something out of a dream [1].
However, not all parts of Utopia Kaga are preserved in such pristine condition. Most rooms in the hotel have broken glass windows, tattered curtains, and carpets [1]. Multiple onsen across the complex are overtaken by creeping greenery and surrounded by broken porcelain and debris [1].
Despite its current state, Utopia Kaga has found a new purpose. It now offers interactions with free-roaming rabbits and activities such as feeding them and participating in craft workshops [3]. The resort, once a symbol of Japan’s attempts in the late 20th century to fuse spirituality with entertainment, now stands as a testament to the passage of time and the enduring allure of the abandoned and offbeat [2].
[1] Josh, ExploringWithJosh, @ExploringWithJosh, July 2021 [2] The Guardian, "Utopia Kaga: Japan's abandoned religious theme park", 2013 [3] Japan Today, "Utopia Kaga: From abandoned theme park to rabbit sanctuary", 2020
- The abandoned Utopia Kaga in Japan, once a grand fusion of spiritual teachings and amusement park attractions, now offers unique experiences with free-roaming rabbits and craft workshops, transforming from a symbol of failed spiritual entertainment to a testament of the passage of time.
- In the news, the mysterious Utopia Kaga complex, nestled in Ishikawa Prefecture, serves as an intriguing travel destination, showcasing a blend of science (through its architecture and design) and lifestyle (with its surreal ambiance and offbeat attractions), offering a strange yet captivating glimpse into Japan's past and its unique approach to fusion experiences.
