Hitome Senbonzakura, Tohoku Travel Guide

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Experience the breathtaking beauty of 1,200 cherry trees in bloom at Hitome Senbonzakura, a top cherry blossom viewing spot in Miyagi, Japan.

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Hitome Senbonzakura

Hitome Senbonzakura is a breathtaking spectacle of approximately 1,200 cherry trees lining the Shiroishi River in Shibata, Miyagi Prefecture, Japan. Meaning 'a thousand cherry trees at a glance,' it offers stunning views, especially when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, typically in early to mid-April. The contrast of the pink blossoms against the snow-capped Zao mountain range in the background creates a picturesque scene that attracts visitors from all over Japan.

A brief summary to Hitome Senbonzakura

12 Funaoka, Shibata, Kawabata Funaoka, Shibata District, Miyagi, 989-1603, JP
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Hitome Senbonzakura.

Visit during early to mid-April for the best chance to see the cherry blossoms in full bloom.
Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Funaoka Castle Ruins Park for panoramic views of the cherry blossoms and surrounding area.
Take a leisurely stroll along the Shiroishi River to fully appreciate the beauty of the cherry trees.
Arrive early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak season.
Check out the local Sakura festival for food stalls and other activities.

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Getting There

Train

The closest train stations to Hitome Senbonzakura are JR Funaoka Station and JR Ōgawara Station. Both stations are approximately a 30-minute train ride from JR Sendai Station on the Tohoku Main Line. From Funaoka Station, it's about a 20-minute walk to the Shiroishi River and Hitome Senbonzakura. From Ōgawara Station, it's also about a 20-minute walk to Niragamiseki, a popular cherry blossom viewing spot along the river. A single fare from Sendai to Funaoka or Ōgawara costs between ¥500 and ¥700.
Car

If driving, Hitome Senbonzakura is approximately 20 minutes by car from the Murata Interchange or 15 minutes from the Shiroishi Interchange on the Tohoku Expressway. Parking is available near the site, but it can be limited during peak season. Parking fees typically range from ¥500 to ¥1000 per day.
Taxi

Taxis are available from Sendai Station to Hitome Senbonzakura. The ride takes approximately 30 minutes and costs between ¥10,000 and ¥13,000. This is the most expensive option.

Discover more about Hitome Senbonzakura

Hitome Senbonzakura, translating to 'a thousand cherry trees at a glance', is a stunning display of natural beauty located along the Shiroishi River in Shibata, Miyagi Prefecture. This area is renowned as one of Japan's top cherry blossom viewing spots, drawing over 300,000 visitors annually.The history of Hitome Senbonzakura dates back to 1923 when Kaijiro Takayama, a local businessman, donated approximately 1,200 cherry tree saplings to the town. Over the years, these trees have matured into a magnificent 'sakura tunnel' stretching for about 8 kilometers along the riverbank. The trees primarily consist of Somei-Yoshino cherry trees, along with White Mountain cherry, Double-flowers cherry and Sendaiyoshino.During early to mid-April, the area transforms into a pink wonderland as the cherry blossoms reach full bloom. The view is particularly striking due to the backdrop of the snow-covered Zao mountain range, creating a harmonious blend of colors and textures. The site has been recognized as one of the 100 best places to view cherry blossoms in Japan.Visitors can enjoy various activities during the cherry blossom season, including strolling along the riverbank, picnicking, and taking boat rides on the river. At night, the Funaoka Castle Ruins Park is illuminated, offering a different perspective of the cherry blossoms.