Aobayama Park: A Historical Oasis in Sendai
Explore Sendai's history and natural beauty at Aobayama Park, home to castle ruins, scenic views, and tranquil green spaces.
Aobayama Park, situated on the grounds of the former Sendai Castle (Aoba Castle), provides a unique experience that combines history, nature, and stunning vistas. Built in 1601 by Date Masamune, the first lord of the Sendai Domain, the castle was the Date clan's residence for over 270 years. Although the original castle structures are gone, remnants of stone walls and foundations offer glimpses into its past grandeur. The park is known for its seasonal beauty, especially during the cherry blossom season when Somei Yoshino trees create a pink canopy against the backdrop of the castle ruins. The elevated location of the park offers panoramic views of Sendai city and the Pacific Ocean. Visitors can also find historical monuments and markers throughout the park, adding to its cultural significance. The Date Masamune equestrian statue, a prominent symbol, is a popular spot for photos. Aobayama Park is more than just a historical site; it's a place where visitors can connect with nature. The park's lush greenery provides a refreshing escape from the city. Whether you're interested in history, scenic views, or a peaceful retreat, Aobayama Park offers a rewarding experience.
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the park involves some walking and potentially a climb to reach the best viewpoints.
- Visit during the spring cherry blossom season for a particularly stunning experience.
- Check if the Date Masamune statue is under renovation before your visit to avoid disappointment.
- Consider taking public transportation or the Loople Sendai bus to avoid a steep uphill walk from Sendai Station.
A brief summary to Aobayama Park
- Kawauchi, Sendai, Kawauchi, Aoba Ward, Miyagi, 980-0862, JP
- +8122-263-7486
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Sendai Station, take the Sendai Subway Tozai Line to Aobayama Station. The ride is approximately 9 minutes and costs ¥250. From Aobayama Station, it's a 25-minute walk to Nishizawa Center, Tohoku University, near Aobayama Park. Alternatively, the Loople Sendai sightseeing bus stops at Sendai Castle Ruins, a short walk from the park. A one-day pass for the Loople Sendai bus costs ¥630.
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Taxi
Taxis are readily available from Sendai Station. A taxi ride to Aobayama Park takes approximately 20 minutes and costs around ¥1600. Note that there may be a 20% surcharge for rides between 10 PM and 5 AM.
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Walking
It is possible to walk from Sendai Station to Aobayama Park, but it is a steep uphill climb that takes approximately 30 minutes. Consider using public transportation for a less strenuous journey.
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Parking
If driving, parking is available near Aobayama Park. The Sendai Aobayama Community Square offers parking for standard vehicles at ¥100 per 30 minutes. The Underground Car Park at the Conference Building costs ¥100 per 30 minutes (¥200 for the first hour). Parking availability may vary depending on events.
