Top 5 Tourist Attractions in Kakuda, Miyagi – Discover Space, Cuisine, Culture, and Nature

Kakuda City in Miyagi Prefecture is located in the southern part of the prefecture and is a town with a mild climate surrounded by mountains. The total area is approximately 148 square kilometers, and the Abukuma River flows from the south to the north through the city. Being only about 50 kilometers from Sendai City, it is easily accessible and can be visited as a side trip from sightseeing in Sendai. For transportation, the Abukuma Express Line runs between Fukushima and Sendai, making it convenient for tourists.
Another characteristic of Kakuda is its relatively low snowfall and warm, calm weather. In spring, the fields of canola flowers along the Abukuma River's banks are stunningly beautiful and attract many tourists each year. This time, we will introduce five selected attractions that highlight the charm of Kakuda.

1. Kakuda Space Tower Cosmo House

The Kakuda Space Tower Cosmo House is a must-visit tourist attraction nestled in Taiyama Park, Miyagi Prefecture. Towering high is a life-sized rocket model standing 49 meters tall, creating a striking skyline that serves as the symbolic icon of Kakuda. Right behind the rocket is the observation platform designed like a launch pad — known as the Space Tower — from where visitors can enjoy stunning panoramic views of the Zao mountain range on clear days. It’s a favorite spot for capturing unforgettable travel photos.
The adjacent Cosmo House Space Exhibition Hall showcases an impressive collection of rare exhibits including life-sized satellite models, rocket engines actually used by JAXA, and even a full-scale replica of the U.S.-built Voyager planetary probe. These scientifically rich displays offer a deep dive into the wonders of space.
Kakuda is also home to the JAXA Kakuda Space Center, making it a dream destination for space lovers. Guided tours are available for visitors who want to explore more about Japan’s advanced aerospace research and technologies. With space science frequently featured in media, this museum is gaining nationwide attention and consistently draws space enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
One of the most popular features among tourists is the chance to buy and taste real Japanese space food, like bread and ice cream designed for space missions — a novelty you can rarely find elsewhere. Whether you’re a science buff or a family looking for unique experiences, this is one of Kakuda City’s most iconic and recommended attractions.

2. Uchimachi Lake

Uchimachi Lake (内町湖, pronounced Uchimachi-ko) is located in the Oyama area of Kakuda City, and it is conveniently accessible for sightseeing—just about a 15-minute drive from Kakuda Station. Selected as one of the 36 Scenic Spots of Miyagi Zao, the lake covers an area of approximately 11 hectares, with a depth of 4 meters and a perimeter of 1.7 kilometers. It is a man-made reservoir created during the damming of a valley stream. As it also functions as an irrigation reservoir, its water level varies depending on the season.
The lake is designated as part of the Deep Mountain Green Conservation Area of Miyagi Prefecture and is surrounded by lush, dense greenery. It serves as a peaceful healing spot for travelers on long journeys. In spring, it is beautifully adorned with cherry blossoms; in summer, irises bloom; and in winter, many swans migrate here, making it a place rich in natural charm. Today, it is well known as a swan migration site and has become a wintertime tradition in Kakuda, attracting tourists even from other prefectures.
As a newly popular tourist spot in Kakuda, the lake sparkles on sunny days and offers ever-changing views—such as glowing sunsets or snowy landscapes—depending on the season and time of day.

3. Abukuma River

The Abukuma River (Abukuma-gawa) is technically not within Kakuda City itself but is classified as a first-class river flowing from Fukushima Prefecture into Miyagi Prefecture. Stretching 239 km long, it is the second-longest river in the Tohoku region, following the Kitakami River. Thanks to the efforts of local volunteers who maintain greenery and cleanliness around the area, the river and its environment remain beautifully preserved.
In Kakuda City, located downstream of the Abukuma River, various events such as the Nanohana (rapeseed flower) Festival and the Abukuma River Rafting Competition are held, attracting many tourists. Popular activities not only among residents but also visitors include cycling and walking. Rental bicycles are available at Kakuda Station, making it enjoyable to ride along the riverside or explore the town at a leisurely pace. A dedicated cycling road runs along the river, enjoyed by many.
If you're visiting Kakuda City, one activity not to miss is the Abukuma River Boat Ride. You can enjoy viewing yellow blossoms in spring, a refreshing boat cruise in summer, hot-pot dining with autumn foliage in fall, and winter scenes while savoring warm dishes—fun all year round!

4. Sennan Shinken Factory

Located in Kakuda City, the Sennan Shinken Factory is known for its craft beers, which have previously won silver and bronze medals at the International Beer Awards. Beer enthusiasts from all over Japan visit to taste their brews.
At Sennan Shinken Factory, you can enjoy about six types of Sennan craft beers made with barley grown in Miyagi Prefecture. The menu also includes dishes made with locally sourced vegetables and other ingredients. There are many snack options that go well with beer—like various meat dishes—making it a paradise for beer lovers. If you're confident in your alcohol tolerance, try not only the award-winning Weizen and Stout but challenge yourself to taste every variety.
The factory is lively not only on weekends but even on weekdays, filled with tourists. But it’s not just about dining and drinking at the restaurant. There's also an on-site shop where you can purchase local beer, ham, sausages, and fresh produce like fruits and vegetables from Kakuda. It's perfect for souvenirs and lets you relive the taste even after your visit.
Best of all, it’s just a 3-minute walk from the west exit of Kakuda Station. With tourists from all over Japan and abroad coming to savor high-quality craft beer, this is a must-visit spot for beer lovers!

5. Taiyama Park

Taiyama Park is an urban park regarded as a place for community interaction for the citizens of Kakuda City. It is a well-loved destination not only by locals but also by tourists.
On the eastern hills of the park, you’ll find the "Space Tower Cosmo House" and the "Taiyama Mausoleum," the resting place of the Ishikawa family who are said to have laid the foundation of Kakuda. The park also houses valuable historical remains like the Tabukuro archaeological site from the mid-Jomon period, attracting history-loving visitors.
Spanning a large area, the park includes a fountain plaza, tennis courts, and a gateball court, providing a relaxing environment for people of all ages—residents and tourists alike. In spring, it becomes a popular cherry blossom viewing spot. Barbecue areas and playground equipment, including an impressively long roller slide, make it especially popular for families. Even just taking a walk here feels refreshing.
The park regularly hosts events like local festivals and the Taiyama Sound Festival, drawing large crowds. Around the pond, various species thrive, making it a place where visitors can feel in touch with rich nature.
Visiting a free park where you can also feel a connection to space is truly wonderful. And from the observatory on the approximately 45-meter-high Space Tower, you can use a telescope to view as far as the Zao mountain range—what a luxurious experience!

◎ Summary

Kakuda City promotes the theme of “a community connected through history, the future, and food.” Representing its local food culture are the keywords: beans, rice, and plums. Representing the city’s vision for the future is the keyword: dream. And representing its historical identity is the keyword: princess—symbolized by Princess Mu-u, the second daughter of the famous warlord Date Masamune, who later married Lord Ishikawa.
With such a wonderful concept, Kakuda is one of the rare “space cities” in Japan—literally looking toward the future. Tourists who visit the Cosmo House often find themselves captivated not only by the exhibit but also by the city’s rich natural environment and unique food culture.
With diverse tourism options that include space exploration, gourmet food, and nature, you can mix and match to suit your interests. Why not create your own original Kakuda itinerary and fully enjoy everything the city has to offer?