Kamui Mintara (Playground of the Gods) Vancouver
Discover the 'Playground of the Gods' sculptures and breathtaking Vancouver views atop Burnaby Mountain.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Kamui Mintara (Playground of the Gods) Vancouver
Best Time
Golden hour light for photos
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the 'Playground of the Gods' sculptures and breathtaking Vancouver views atop Burnaby Mountain.
"Unbelievably relaxing.. These Japanese Ainu carved columns are fantastic and the view up there is incredible."
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning light on the sculptures and city views.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tough; arrive early or be ready for a walk. Weekdays are best.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Playground of the Gods Sculptures
Central area of the park
Intricate wooden carvings depicting Ainu mythology, offering a unique cultural and visual experience.
Panoramic City Views
Upper park areas
Breathtaking 360-degree vistas of Vancouver, the Burrard Inlet, and surrounding mountains.
Sunset Spectacle
Western viewpoints
Witness the sky ablaze with color as the sun dips below the horizon, creating a magical atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Parking Pointers
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning light on the sculptures and city views.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tough; arrive early or be ready for a walk. Weekdays are best.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Enjoy various walking paths, a playground, and a rose garden.
🍦 Sweet Treat Spot
Keep an eye out for the ice cream truck on warmer days!
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Golden Hour Magic
Visit during sunrise or sunset for stunning light on the sculptures and city views.
🚗 Parking Patience
Parking can be tough; arrive early or be ready for a walk. Weekdays are best.
🚶♀️ Explore the Trails
Enjoy various walking paths, a playground, and a rose garden.
🍦 Sweet Treat Spot
Keep an eye out for the ice cream truck on warmer days!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning panoramic views of Vancouver and the unique cultural significance of the 'Playground of the Gods' sculptures. It's a peaceful spot for relaxation, photography, and family outings, though parking can be a challenge and the wooden sculptures are showing signs of age.
"Burnaby Mountain offers incredible views of the city, inlet, and mountains—sunset here is especially magical. It’s a peaceful spot for a walk, quiet moment, or casual date. Just far enough from the city to feel like a getaway, but still easy to reach."
Marta Stashevska
"The playground of the gods. Cool name for the sculpture. Nice atmosphere around it. Didn't expect it to tie to be a gift from Kushiro, Japan; Burnaby's twin Japanese city. The more you know."
Theos
"Unbelievably relaxing.. These Japanese Ainu carved columns are fantastic and the view up there is incredible. These sculptures are rare and starting to fall apart so take a boo at them before they rot. Take a load off up here."
Dawn Mist
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kamui Mintara is located within Burnaby Mountain Park. You can drive up Burnaby Mountain Parkway. Public transport options include bus routes that go up the mountain, though driving is generally more convenient.
Yes, there is parking available in Burnaby Mountain Park, but it can fill up quickly, especially on weekends and during good weather. Arriving early is recommended.
Yes, there are cycling routes that lead up Burnaby Mountain. Be prepared for an uphill climb.
Several TransLink bus routes serve Burnaby Mountain, connecting to SkyTrain stations. Check the TransLink website for the most current routes and schedules.
The sculptures are located in the central part of Burnaby Mountain Park. Follow the signs for the 'Playground of the Gods' or the main viewpoint areas. It's a short walk from the main parking areas.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Kamui Mintara is located in Burnaby Mountain Park, which is a public park. There are no admission fees to enter the park or see the sculptures.
Burnaby Mountain Park is open year-round from dawn until dusk. The sculptures are accessible during park hours.
There is no entrance fee for Burnaby Mountain Park. It is a free public space for everyone to enjoy.
While the park is technically open until dusk, it's best to visit during daylight hours to fully appreciate the sculptures and the views. Safety is also a consideration after dark.
Official guided tours are not commonly advertised. However, the information panels near the sculptures provide historical context.
📸 📸 Photography
The best times for photography are during the golden hours: sunrise and sunset. The low-angle light creates dramatic shadows from the sculptures and offers beautiful cityscapes.
A wide-angle lens is great for capturing the scale of the sculptures and the expansive views. A telephoto lens can be useful for isolating details or capturing distant city landmarks.
Drone usage is subject to Transport Canada regulations and local park bylaws. It's advisable to check current regulations before flying a drone in Burnaby Mountain Park.
The area around the 'Playground of the Gods' sculptures themselves is a primary focus. Also, the viewpoints overlooking Vancouver and the Burrard Inlet offer stunning photographic opportunities.
Absolutely! The park offers some of the best panoramic views of downtown Vancouver, making it a prime spot for cityscape photography.
🎫 🌳 Onsite Experience
Burnaby Mountain Park offers a playground for kids, walking and hiking trails, a rose garden, and a restaurant. It's ideal for picnics and enjoying nature.
The sculptures are made of wood and are starting to show signs of age and decay. Visitors are encouraged to see them before they deteriorate further.
Yes, the park has a playground and open spaces, making it family-friendly. The sculptures are interesting to look at, though younger children might not grasp their full significance.
Burnaby Mountain Park is a popular spot for picnics. There are designated areas and plenty of open space to enjoy a meal outdoors.
These are bound wood pole carvings that represent a historical connection between Japan and Canada, specifically related to Ainu culture. Each pole has its own significance. +1
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the sculptures themselves might be more appreciated by adults, the overall park experience is very family-friendly. The easy walking paths make it accessible for strollers, and the stunning views provide a great backdrop for family photos. Don't forget to look out for the ice cream truck on warmer days for a special treat!
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The panoramic city views are equally impressive. Capture the Vancouver skyline, the Burrard Inlet, and the surrounding mountains. Experiment with wide-angle lenses for sweeping vistas and telephoto lenses to isolate details. The park provides a diverse range of photographic opportunities, from cultural art to stunning natural landscapes.
🚶♀️ Nature Lovers & Walkers
Beyond the trails, the sheer beauty of the natural surroundings, combined with the expansive views, makes it an ideal place for a leisurely walk or a quiet moment outdoors. It's a great spot to connect with nature without having to travel far from the city.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The 'Playground of the Gods' Sculptures
It's important to note that these wooden sculptures are exposed to the elements and are beginning to show signs of natural decay. While this adds a certain poignancy to their presence, it also means that their lifespan is limited. Visitors are encouraged to appreciate their artistry and historical significance while they are still in good condition.
These carvings are a rare artistic and cultural display, making them a must-see for those interested in unique public art and cross-cultural narratives. The way they are positioned also allows for interesting photographic opportunities, especially when the light hits them just right.
Panoramic Views of Vancouver
The park offers several vantage points, each providing a slightly different perspective of the urban landscape and natural beauty. These viewpoints are perfect for a leisurely stroll, a quiet moment of reflection, or simply to soak in the breathtaking scenery. The sunset views from here are particularly renowned, painting the sky with vibrant colors and casting a warm glow over the city.
These views make Burnaby Mountain Park a popular spot for both locals and tourists alike. It's an ideal location for photography, offering endless opportunities to capture the essence of Vancouver's stunning geography. Whether you're looking for a dramatic cityscape or a serene natural backdrop, the park delivers.
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