6 Recommended Tourist Spots in Oogawara, Miyagi Prefecture – A Charming, Old-Fashioned Town

Oogawara, located in the central part of the Sennan area in Miyagi Prefecture, is traversed by the Shiroishi River. It is famous for the many migratory birds that visit every year. Moreover, the cherry blossoms lining both banks have been selected as one of the "100 Famous Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan." Here, we introduce 6 recommended tourist spots in Oogawara that you should definitely visit!

1. Hitome Senbon Sakura

"Hitome Senbon Sakura" is arguably the symbol of Oogawara Town. The cherry blossom scenery along the Shiroishi River is a very popular spot for sightseeing. There are also yakatabune (chartered boats for cherry blossom viewing) available so that you can leisurely enjoy the beauty of the cherry blossoms from the water.

The cherry blossoms in Oogawara were originally planted—totaling about a thousand trees—through a donation by Takayama Kaijiro in Taisho 12. Every April, the "Oogawara Sakura Festival" is held, enchanting many tourists with the breathtaking beauty of the blossoms.

2. Ezuko Hall Sennan Arts and Culture Center

"Ezuko Hall Sennan Arts and Culture Center" is a space in Oogawara where art and culture are expressed, allowing many people to share its value. It provides moving performances and musical events that stir the hearts of the audience, as well as inspiring hope in the arts.

The name "Ezuko" comes from a dialect in the Tohoku region referring to a "straw basket" used to raise babies—a symbol of being a cradle for creating regional culture. This name reflects the people’s wish to cherish the connections and traditions of Oogawara.

Various events including theater, dance, traditional performing arts, and music are held, and you can also find community-based workshops and projects that let you feel the local atmosphere.

3. Oogawara Riverside Park

Every winter, over 500 swans visit Oogawara Riverside Park. This park is a well-known swan migration spot in the southern part of Miyagi Prefecture, attracting both locals and tourists who come to admire the beautiful sight of the gathering swans. The park’s expansive open square is equipped with playground equipment such as slides and spinning chairs, making it very popular with families.

4. Shimadate Shrine

Shimadate Shrine enshrines Hoshoku-gami, Sarutahiko-no-Kami, Omiya Megami, and the agriculture deity. It exudes a quiet and solemn atmosphere. The local people of Oogawara affectionately refer to it as "Inari-san" or "Inari Daimyojin."

Behind the worship hall, you can find the "Shimadate Kofun Ruins," the tomb of a powerful local clan that once governed the Oogawara region. This spot, where you can directly feel the history from ancient times, is a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

5. Tonton Hill "Mochibuta Hall"

"Tonton Hill" is a tourist facility that promotes the charm of "Mochibuta" (a type of local pork). In addition to the Mochibuta Hall, which sells various food ingredients, there is also Tonton Shrine, Oogawara Natural Hot Spring “Ii-yu,” Wanpaku Forest, and walking trails.

At Mochibuta Hall, you can find delicious products such as Japanese pork Mochibuta meat, ham, sausages, and homemade side dishes—all of which are must-tries! You can also purchase local specialties and traditional crafts, making it an ideal spot for souvenir hunting.

Tonton Hill offers a full day of fun with opportunities to interact with animals, visit a lavender farm, or enjoy a chestnut orchard. You can even have a barbecue in the BBQ area and savor fresh local meat, making it a great choice when you want to taste the regional gourmet delights of Oogawara.

6. Tsutsumi Umedanchi

The 6-hectare "Tsutsumi Umedanchi" grounds are home to about 3,000 plum trees of varieties such as Shirakaga and Hanagami. Oogawara has long been associated with plums, even being celebrated in Heian-era waka poetry, which is why plum trees have been designated as the town tree. During plum blossom season, the entire area fills with the aroma of plum blossoms.

Tsutsumi Umedanchi was constructed before the war. The plum trees reach their peak from mid-March to early April, but here the "Oogawara Ume Festival" is held in late June. At the festival, you can buy plums by weight, make reservations for ume used in pickling, and purchase local specialties. There is even an opportunity to experience plum picking. Be sure to visit during plum season to enjoy the blossoms and fruits.

◎ Summary

Oogawara is an area where abundant nature remains, offering a different view of each season. The plum season, in particular, is a must-see. If you’re still wondering where to go for your next holiday, be sure to visit Oogawara and enjoy its vast, soothing natural beauty!

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