![[Miyagi, Funaoka Castle Ruins Park] A historical spot where you can enjoy cherry blossoms and spectacular views](https://cdn.jeepe.jp/uploads/public_image/image/1829/normal_89051fb1-0bce-4ee6-8b77-4ec33b8f52bf.jpg "[Miyagi, Funaoka Castle Ruins Park] A historical spot where you can enjoy cherry blossoms and spectacular views")
What is Funaoka Castle Ruins Park?
Funaoka Castle Ruins Park (Funaokajōshi Kōen) is a beautiful park in Shibata Town, Miyagi Prefecture, where history and nature come together.
In spring, about 1,000 cherry trees bloom in profusion, and the park is known as a famous cherry blossom spot, selected as one of the "100 Famous Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan".
Built on the site of the former Funaoka Castle, the park offers scenic views throughout the year—not just during cherry blossom season—
and from the observation deck you can take in panoramic views of the Zao Mountain Range and the Shiroishi River.
Each spring the "Shibata Sakura Festival" is held here, drawing many visitors.
The park is also easy to access from Sendai, making it a recommended stop when visiting Miyagi.
Highlights of Funaoka Castle Ruins Park
1. A breathtaking spot selected as one of the "100 Famous Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan"
The park’s biggest attraction is the stunning scenery during cherry blossom season.
From early to mid-April, about 1,000 Somei-yoshino cherry trees bloom across the park, turning the whole area pink.
Especially from the observation deck at the summit, the view of the cherry trees below is breathtaking.
Along the Shiroishi River you can also find the cherry tree-lined avenue known as "Hitome Senbonzakura" (one-thousand trees at a glance), and it’s recommended to visit this in combination with Funaoka Castle Ruins Park.
Recommended cherry viewing spots
- Observation deck: Enjoy a panorama of the cherry trees and the Zao Mountain Range
- View from the slope car: A special experience riding through a tunnel of full-bloom cherry trees
- Combination with the Shiroishi River "Hitome Senbonzakura": Enjoy the park’s cherry trees together with the riverside blossoms
2. Slope car offering spectacular views
Funaoka Castle Ruins Park has a slope car (a monorail-style vehicle) that takes visitors up to the summit.
Because it travels through a tunnel of cherry trees, during spring you can have the special experience of being surrounded by blossoms.
- Operating season: Spring and autumn tourist seasons
- Fare: Adults ¥300 / Children ¥150
- Duration: About 3 minutes
The slope car’s terminus is the observation deck, where you can take in views of the Zao Mountain Range and the Shiroishi River.
On clear days you can see far into the distance, making it a popular spot for visitors.
3. Beautiful autumn leaves and winter snowscapes
Funaoka Castle Ruins Park is also known for its autumn foliage, not just its cherry blossoms.
The trees around the observation deck turn red and gold, creating a spectacular scene—perfect for autumn hiking.
In winter, the park is covered in snow, offering a quiet, magical landscape wrapped in stillness.
Fewer visitors come in winter, so you can enjoy the scenery in a peaceful atmosphere.
4. Historical remains that recall Funaoka Castle
This area once housed Funaoka Castle, which flourished during the Edo period as the residence of Harada Kōisuke, a senior retainer of the Sendai Domain known from the Date disturbance.
Although the castle buildings no longer remain, you can still see stone walls and terrain features that convey the atmosphere of the castle ruins.
History enthusiasts can enjoy strolling while learning about the history of the Shibata and Date families.
How to enjoy Funaoka Castle Ruins Park
1. Take part in the "Shibata Sakura Festival" (April)
The annual "Shibata Sakura Festival" held every April features night-time cherry blossom illumination and food stalls, so you can enjoy the park both day and night.
At night, the illuminated cherry blossoms appear magical, offering a different atmosphere from daytime.
- Event period: Early to mid-April
- Main events: Cherry blossom illumination, food stalls, traditional performing arts
2. Visit together with the "Hitome Senbonzakura"
About a 10-minute walk from Funaoka Castle Ruins Park along the Shiroishi River is the beautiful cherry avenue known as "Hitome Senbonzakura".
The riverside cherry tree tunnel stretching roughly 8 km is one of Japan’s top cherry blossom spots.
Visiting the park and the riverside together lets you fully enjoy the charm of the cherry blossoms.
3. Enjoy hiking and nature
Outside of cherry and autumn foliage seasons, Funaoka Castle Ruins Park is also a great hiking spot.
Trails up to the summit are maintained, so you can take a relaxed walk while enjoying nature.
Useful information for travelers
Access
By train
- About 30 minutes from JR Sendai Station on the Tohoku Main Line → Get off at Funaoka Station, about a 15-minute walk
By car
- About 40 minutes from central Sendai
- Parking: Free (but expect congestion during the cherry blossom festival)
Admission & opening hours
- Admission: Free
- Slope car fare: Adults ¥300 / Children ¥150
- Opening hours: Open 24 hours (watch your step at night)
Wi-Fi
- Free Wi‑Fi available at cafes and the tourist information center near Funaoka Station
Language support
- English and Chinese tourist brochures available (Shibata Town Tourist Information Center)
- Some English-speaking staff are present during the cherry blossom festival
Summary and Frequently Asked Questions
Funaoka Castle Ruins Park is one of Miyagi Prefecture’s top spots to enjoy both historical charm and natural beauty.
In particular, it’s recommended to visit during spring together with the "Hitome Senbonzakura".
With cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, and snowy winter landscapes, the park has attractions in every season—so it’s worth visiting any time of year!
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: When is the best time to see the cherry blossoms at Funaoka Castle Ruins Park?
A: The best time is early to mid-April.
Q: Are there restaurants or shops inside the park?
A: There are some stalls in the park, but for full meals we recommend restaurants around Funaoka Station.
Q: Is there night-time illumination of the cherry blossoms?
A: Yes, cherry blossom illumination is held during the "Shibata Sakura Festival".
Be sure to experience Japan’s beautiful seasons at Funaoka Castle Ruins Park!
