Senshū Park

Senshū Park is an urban park in Akita built on the grounds of the former Kubota Castle, preserving stone walls, moats, and reconstructed structures from the original fortress. Walking paths spread across multiple levels, connecting different sections of the site.

Kubota Castle was founded in 1602 by Lord Satake Yoshinobu following his transfer to Akita Domain from Hitachi Province. The fortress grounds were later converted into the park that now preserves the remains of this historical stronghold.

The park draws crowds during spring when cherry blossoms appear along the pathways, and locals and visitors gather to celebrate the bloom season together. This seasonal gathering has become a central event in the city's spring calendar.

The park is free to enter and lies just a 10-minute walk from Akita Station for easy access. Visitors can explore the various pathways at their own pace to tour all sections of the grounds.

The traditional tea house contains a rare boat-shaped water basin reportedly brought back from Korea by samurai Kato Kiyomasa. This unusual artifact reflects a chapter from Japan's complex historical connections with the Korean peninsula.

Location: Akita

Inception: 1896

Part of: Japan's Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots, 100 Best Urban Parks in Japan, 100 Best Historical Parks in Japan

Website: https://city.akita.lg.jp/kurashi/doro-koen/1003685/1007159

GPS coordinates: 39.72196,140.12411

Latest update: December 8, 2025 19:55