When I ask my overseas friends what they want to do in Japan, many of them answers that they want to see Sakura, or Japanese cherry blossoms. I’m glad to learn that cherry blossoms are not only popular in Japan but also in the world. Let’s enjoy this Japanese traditional culture!
In Akita City, Akita, you can see them in Senshu Park. Senshu Park is a historical landmark loved by people in our city. Back in around 1602, the Kubota Castle was built by SATAKE Yoshinobu, the first generation lord of the Akita Domain at that time. The Satake clan had lasted by 12 lords for 267 years. (*You can see more about it here♪)
The main gate is decorated by cherry blossoms, too. So beautiful!
In spring time, lots of cherry blossoms bloom beautifully, which makes the park as one of the most popular cherry blossoms viewing spots in Akita. Also, Senshu Park has been recognized as one of the Japan’s Top 100 Cherry Blossom Viewing Sites. You can’t miss this seasonal attraction!
By the way, the Sakura season in Akita city is usually between the middle and the end of April. But, this year in 2021, they started blooming at the beginning of April! So, I recommend that you should check the cherry blossom forecast in advance because it can change each year.
This historical tower is one of the sightseeing spots, which is called “Osumi-yagura”. It was built as a lookout as well as warehouse of weapons. This tower was restored by the city and visitors can enter there. At the top, you can view the whole Akita City!
After taking a nice walk in Senshu Park, I went down to “Nakaichi” (complex) and had a tea time! On the first floor, there is a bakery & café “GRISSINI”.
Inside of the café was full of delicious smell of breads! They sell handmade breads! But today, I wanted to try a set of French Toast with lots of fruits and ice cream! (*Price: 800 yen plus tax / As of April, 2021)
In “Nakaichi”, there is also an Akita Dog Station. Akita Dog is a famous dog breed originated in Akita. They are big but really cute! Depending on the exhibition schedule, you can see Akita Dog in here! (*To check the exhibition schedule, please go to the official website.)
In addition to Senshu Park, I visited another cherry blossom viewing spot in the same city. There is a row of cherry blossoms trees along the river.
This place is not very famous but popular among local people, including me! In fall, actually, you can see cosmos near here. So, you’ll enjoy changing seasons in Japan. From Senshu Park to this area, it will take about only 10 minutes by car or by bus. Let’s investigate attractive things to do in Akita!
~~~ Facility Info ~~~
- Senshu Park
Senshu Park 1, Akita City, Akita, Japan
https://www.city.akita.lg.jp/kurashi/doro-koen/1003685/1007159/index.html
＊Kubota Castle (in Senshu Park): Open 9:00～16:30（※Open 9:00～19:00 during summer vacation of public elementary school and junior high school）／ Entrance fee of 100 yen per adult and 80 yen for a group over 20 members ／ Closed December 1st～March 31st
【Parking】Paid parking
【Access】
＊From JR Akita station (West Exit): About 5 minutes by car・taxi・bus ／ About 15 minutes on foot
＊From Akita Expressway (Akita-chuo IC): About 20 minutes by car・taxi
＊From Akita Airport: About 40 minutes by car・taxi ／ About 40 minutes by limousine bus～ From JR Akita station (West Exit): About 5 minutes by car・taxi・bus ／ About 15 minutes on foot
2. Bakery & Café GRISSINI
(1F Nakaichi) 1-4-3 Nakadori, Akita city, Akita, Japan
*Open 9:00～19:00 (Open all year round)
【Parking】Paid parking
【Access】In front of Senshu Park (Nakado-bashi bridge side)
3. Cherry trees in Yabase, Akita City
Near Daido-higashi, Yabase, Akita City, Akita, Japan
【Access】
＊From JR Akita station (West Exit): About 10 minutes by car・taxi・bus
＊From Akita Expressway (Akita-chuo IC): About 25 minutes by car・taxi
＊From Akita Airport: About 45 minutes by car・taxi ／ About 40 minutes by limousine bus～ From JR Akita station (West Exit): About 10 minutes by car・taxi・bus
Written by Naomi in Ugo
*As of April, 2021.
