Saigyo Modoshi no Matsu Park
西行戻しの松公園
A viewpoint park on the hill west of Matsushima Bay. In spring, cherry blossoms in the foreground frame the bay and its islands, making it Matsushima's top cherry-blossom spot.
According to legend, the Heian-period poet-monk Saigyo travelled here and lost a debate with a young boy, so he turned back. That is how the name came about. The park sits on high ground on the west side of Matsushima Bay, overlooking the water and the pine-covered islands. In spring, about 260 cherry trees bloom, and the combination of cherry blossoms, sea and islands in one frame makes it one of the most popular photo spots in Matsushima in any season. The park has a café where you can drink coffee while looking at the sea. Entry is free, and the park is open all day. It is about a 20-minute walk from Matsushima-Kaigan Station on the JR line. The slope is steep, so a taxi is also an option.
Opening hours
Open all day
Nearby sights
- Entsu-in Temple
- Zuiganji Temple
- Kanrantei Tea House
- Ojima Island
- Godaido Hall
- Matsushima Bay Cruise
- Matsushima Fish Market
- Fukuurajima Island