Apr 16, 2014 - 1 min read

Funaoka Castle Park, Miyagi

Famous for sakura, great views and NHK period drama!

By Takako Sakamoto

Community writer

Statue of Funaoka Goddess of Peace on top of the hill, and blooming cherry trees

It's an easy walk to the hilltop where Funaoka Castle Park is located

Colorful flowers along the walking path to the hilltop

Stone peace monument at Funaoka Castle Park

On the left is the statue of Funaoka Goddess of Peace, with 'the Fir Trees Remain' observation deck on the right

At the edge of the park there's an observation deck called 'The Fir Trees Remain'. The deck was named after a NHK period drama broadcast in 1970

Stone monument on which the final poem of a samurai who was executed during 'Date Disturbance', is written. This dispute occurred within the Date Clan in 1671, and the novel 'The Fir Trees Remain' describes this historical event

The sign explaining a novel 'The Fir Trees Remain' written by Shugoro Yamamoto, and NHK period drama which was based on it

People appreciating great views from an observation deck. The view from here has been selected as one of the best 36 views of Miyagi-Zao

Great view of Mt. Zao, '1000 cherry trees at a glance' and Shiroishi River seen from observation deck

Located 30 minutes southward on a train ride from JR Sendai Station, Funaoka Castle Park, situated on a small hilltop, is famous for its large number of cherry trees and great views of Mt. Zao. It also includes 1,000 cherry trees at a glance along the Shiroishi River. But only a few people know this is also the locale of a famed novel of Shugoro Yamamoto, 'The Fir Trees Remain' and the NHK period drama from 1970 which was based on it. The protagonist of the novel was once the lord of Funaoka Castle. In cherry blossom season, the annual 'Shibata Sakura Festa' is held and many people visit this park to enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms and great views from the hilltop. For photos of cherry blossoms during the festival, please refer to my other photo essay.