Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Kubota Castle (Kubota Castle Ruins) was a castle located in the center of present-day Akita City, and was developed during the Edo period as the residence of the Akita Domain (Satake clan). The center of the castle is now developed as Senshu Park, and the remains of the moat, stone walls, and the main and second baileys remain. It is said that no castle tower was built, and the castle consisted of turrets and gates, but many of the buildings were lost after the Meiji period. The castle ruins are a place of relaxation for local residents, as well as a popular spot for historical walks, seasonal cherry blossom viewing, and autumn foliage viewing.
Highlights
- Moat and stone walls: The moat and impressive stone walls that remain around the castle convey the atmosphere of the past and make a worthwhile stroll.
- Remains of Honmaru and Ninomaru: You can see the layout of the enclosures that remain within the park, and learn about the structure from the historical information boards.
- The scenery of Senshu Park: The park has different appearances depending on the season (cherry blossoms, autumn leaves, snow scenes), and there are many photo spots.
- Historical materials and exhibits: The museums and local history halls in the park and surrounding area display materials related to the Akita Domain and the Satake clan, as well as local history exhibits.
- Easy access to museums and art galleries: There are many Akita Prefectural and Municipal cultural facilities around the castle ruins, making it convenient to visit them all at once.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Akita Station - about a 10-15 minute walk. The walk from the station is flat and easy to find.
- Bus: You can use buses such as Akita Chuo Kotsu to get to bus stops such as "Senshu Park Front" and "City Hall Front" (bus stop names vary depending on the route).
- By car: As the area is in the center of Akita City, you will need to use the nearby paid parking lots. It can get crowded on weekends and during events, so we recommend arriving early.
- Taxi: From Akita Station, it will cost between one meter and a few hundred yen (about 1km).
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Short walk: 30 minutes to 1 hour (enough to walk around the moat and stone walls)
- Leisurely visit: 1-2 hours (including strolling around the park and the surrounding museums and exhibits)
- A leisurely tour: half a day (including nearby museums, cafes, and other attractions)
Nearby spots
- Akita Museum of Art: A facility that mainly stores and exhibits modern art. The building itself is also a highlight.
- Akita City Folk Museum and Folklore Museum: A facility where you can learn about Akita's history and folk culture (there are several in the area, and the exhibits vary depending on the facility).
- Akita City Hall area and central shopping district: A collection of restaurants and souvenir shops where you can enjoy local specialties and sake.
- Cherry blossom and autumn foliage viewing spot (inside Senshu Park): In spring, this famous cherry blossom viewing spot is crowded with many visitors.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The park gets busy during the cherry blossom season in spring, the autumn leaves in fall, and during large city events in summer. We recommend arriving early if visiting on weekends or public holidays.
- Manners: Parks are places of relaxation for the public. Please take your trash with you and refrain from using fires or playing loud music except in designated areas. Do not enter restricted areas within the historic site.
- Comfortable clothing: It is recommended to wear non-slip shoes as the trail is covered with stone steps, unpaved sidewalks, and in winter, ice and snow can make the trail slippery.
- Winter precautions: While the snow scenery is beautiful, there is a risk of falling due to the cold and ice. Please dress warmly and be careful when walking.
- Closing days of nearby facilities: Museums and local history museums are closed on certain days or for certain seasons, so if you plan to visit them, please check the opening times in advance.
Kubota Castle Ruins (Senshu Park) is an oasis in the city where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the four seasons while feeling the history. It is close to the station and easy to access, so feel free to drop by as a base for sightseeing in Akita.
