Osaki Furukawa: Iwadeyama Castle Town and Birthplace of Date Masamune

Osaki and Iwadeyama

Osaki City in northern Miyagi's Sendai Plain is an agricultural center. The Iwadeyama area holds the ruins of Iwadeyama Castle (Yogai-yama Castle), where Date Masamune had his stronghold before moving to Sendai Castle in 1591 — the land where Masamune spent his youth.

Highlights

- Iwadeyama Castle Ruins (Yogai-yama): Views in three directions from the summit - Former Yubikan (National Historic Site and Scenic Spot): Garden at the foot of Yogai-yama, once the Date clan's private school - Yubikan Garden: Edo-period strolling pond garden designated as a National Special Scenic Spot - Osaki Kodo (GIAHS): Paddy field landscape recognized as a UNESCO Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System

Osaki's Agricultural Culture

- Osaki Kodo: The water management system continuing from the Edo period earned UNESCO GIAHS recognition - Miyakoganei: Specially cultivated rice from Osaki

Getting There

- Alight at JR Rikuu East Line Iwadeyama Station (about 20 minutes from Furukawa) - From JR Tohoku Shinkansen Furukawa Station by train or bus to Iwadeyama

Tips

The former Yubikan garden is particularly beautiful during cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Shrines for love and academic success are nearby.