How do I get to Hitome Senbon Sakura?

The easiest way to reach the area is by taking a train from Sendai to Ogawara Station, which is the closest station to the cherry blossom viewing spot. The journey takes about 40 minutes by the JR Tohoku Line. From the station, it's just a short walk to the riverbank where the cherry trees are located.

Is it possible to take a boat ride along the Shiroishi River?

Yes, boat rides are available during the cherry blossom season, allowing visitors to view the blossoms from the water.

Is there an entrance fee to see the cherry blossoms?

No, visiting Hitome Senbon Sakura is completely free. However, during the peak season, there may be small fees for parking if you are arriving by car, as well as charges for boat rides or special events such as night illuminations.

When is the best time to visit Hitome Senbon Sakura?

The best time to visit is usually in early to mid-April when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. However, the exact timing can vary each year depending on weather conditions. It's best to check the bloom forecast for Miyagi Prefecture before planning a trip.

Miyagi

Hitome Senbonzakura

4.6 (1094)Scenic SpotTourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated May 29, 2026

Hitome Senbon Sakura is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot in Japan, located along the Shiroishi River in Miyagi Prefecture. The name "Hitome Senbon Sakura" means "a thousand cherry blossoms at a glance," which describes the breathtaking sight of the cherry trees blooming along the riverbank. When the flowers are in full bloom, it looks like a pink tunnel stretching for about 8 kilometers, with over a thousand cherry trees standing in rows.

This place is especially popular during spring, usually in April, when the cherry blossoms, or "sakura," reach their peak. The scenery becomes even more beautiful with the view of Mount Zao in the background, creating a perfect contrast between the pink flowers and the snow-capped mountain.

During the cherry blossom season, the area hosts festivals with food stalls, music, and nighttime illuminations, allowing people to enjoy the blossoms both during the day and at night. The Shiroishi River adds to the charm, reflecting the blossoms on its calm surface, creating a dreamlike atmosphere.

Phone

+81 224-55-2123

Overview

Address

Kawabata-12 Funaoka, Shibata, Shibata District, Miyagi 989-1603, Japan

Places & attractions near Hitome Senbonzakura

Mizusawa Prefectural Office Memorial Hall, Tome

Shiroishi Castle

Naruko Onsen, Osaki

Fukuurajima

Places & attractions near Hitome Senbonzakura

Mizusawa Prefectural Office Memorial Hall, Tome

Shiroishi Castle

Naruko Onsen, Osaki

Fukuurajima

Frequently Asked Questions

Traveler reviews

A wonderful and highly recommended place to come by and view the Sakura if you ever plan a visit to Japan in April! There were also not too many people around so you can certainly get many good shots around the area and enjoy the blossoms at your own pace!❤️ We got off the train at Ōgawara Station and walked to Funaoka Station via this route to view to Cherry Blossoms and it did not disappoint! At the start there was also a festival going on where you can buy lots of different snacks and food to eat while admiring the cherry blossoms!🌸🌸 We also managed to capture some trains running by the cherry blossoms too!🚃 The tourism staff outside of Ōgawara Station were also very friendly and helpful to us foreigners and gave us lots of recommendations along the way.🙏

Spike378

Apr 16, 2026

Full of cherry blossom all the way along the river. Definitely worth a visit. Festivals held during Sakura season and you can enjoy food offer from locals.

A visual feast in cherry blossom season—you have to experience it at least once in your life time.

I went here last week and yesterday, and it is not as crowded as it is during the weekends. It's a must-see place during spring season. The thousand lined-up Sakura trees by the Shiroishi river are really beautiful in person. If the weather is good, you can also see the Zaō Mountain Range in the background.

The beauty of sakura, or cherry blossoms, is truly mesmerizing. Each spring, these delicate flowers bloom, transforming landscapes into breathtaking scenes of pink and white. The sight of sakura trees in full bloom evokes a sense of tranquility and joy, drawing people from all walks of life to parks and gardens. The petals, soft and fragile, flutter gently in the breeze, creating a picturesque moment that feels almost magical.