Nishikyogokusogondokoen Park

Nishi-Kyogoku Sports Park gathers Kyoto's main athletic venues in one place — the city gymnasium, a combined track and ball-game stadium, and a baseball stadium. Pro football, basketball and women's baseball teams are based here, and it hosts big national events like the high school and women's ekiden relays. It's worth a stop on quiet days too: the grounds are well planted, with cherry blossoms in spring and maples in autumn, and birdsong along the paths. There are marked jogging and walking routes with distance boards, outdoor fitness equipment and free coin lockers. Note that the park may be closed to the public during competitions and events.