. As of 2003, the ward has an estimated population of 44,318 and the density of 576.08 persons per km². The total area is 76.93 km². The city gained a city status on April 1, 1972. Minamiashigara has a sister city relationship with Tilburg in the Netherlands. Sites of Interest Saijoji Temple, many temples and shrines located in an old growth cedar forest. Niju Isseki no Mori (21st Century Forest), a park with hiking trails throughout. Maruta no Mori: a park with hiking trails and camp… (More on Minamiashigara)