Funaoka Castle Park: A Premier Cherry Blossom Spot Near Sendai

Shibata Town, located in the suburbs near Sendai, is known for its scenic cherry blossom spots due to its undulating terrain and proximity to rivers. Among these, the comprehensive park at the site of Funaoka Castle stands out as a premier cherry blossom viewing destination. The park boasts over 1,000 Yoshino cherry trees, along with approximately 16 varieties of cherry blossoms transplanted from various regions across Japan. In April, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, the entire cherry blossom hill is painted in shades of pink. Visitors can take a cable car to the mountaintop and observation deck to enjoy a panoramic view of the snow-capped Zao Mountain Range, the Shiroishi River, the famous "Hitome Senbonzakura" (a thousand cherry trees at a glance), and the vibrant blossoms within Funaoka Castle Park. The breathtaking scenery is truly a feast for the eyes. From Sendai Station, it takes about 30 minutes by JR train to reach Funaoka Station. After alighting, a 15-minute walk will lead you to Funaoka Castle Park.