A beautiful park where Akita City’s history and nature merge
Senshu Park is a stunning park where history and nature harmonize, offering seasonal landscapes that attract many tourists and locals alike.
The history of Senshu Park dates back to the early Edo period. In 1603, Yoshinobu Satake, the first lord of the Akita domain, built Kubota Castle, and its ruins are what we now know as Senshu Park. Kubota Castle was a hilltop castle without a central keep, with minimal stone walls, surrounded instead by moats and earthen mounds. In the Meiji period, it was transformed into a beautiful park designed by the landscape architect Anpei Nagaoka.
Within the park, there are several historical buildings and landmarks. One of them is the Kubota Castle Omonomi Yagura, a reconstructed watchtower on the elevated northern side of the inner citadel, one of eight such watchtowers that originally stood in the castle. From the observation room, visitors can enjoy a panoramic view of Akita City, and it has become a beloved symbol of Senshu Park.
Additionally, Senshu Park is a place where visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of each season. In spring, the cherry blossoms are in full bloom, and a cherry blossom festival is held. In summer, the lotus flowers in the moat reach their peak, creating a refreshing view. In autumn, the park is adorned with beautiful fall foliage, turning shades of red and yellow. In winter, traditional "yukitsuri" is applied to the trees, and the snow-covered landscape offers a charming and scenic atmosphere.
The park is also well-equipped with facilities for leisurely walks. The Otemon Moat Promenade serves as a new pedestrian route from JR Akita Station to Senshu Park, and the view of the lotus flowers spreading across the moat from the promenade has become a new tourist attraction, enhancing the town's appeal and creating vibrancy.
At the Ninomaru Plaza, there is a large lawn and a gazebo, where visitors can relax and spend a peaceful time. Additionally, the Akita City Satake Historical Museum exhibits materials related to the Akita domain and the Satake clan, offering a glimpse into the region’s history.
Furthermore, the "Sen-an" tea house is available for rent, where guests can enjoy a quiet moment in an authentic tea room.
