Hello!
This time, we’ll introduce “Tendo Park” located in Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture.

When you think of Tendo Park, the famous at the summit of Mount Maizuru—symbolizing Tendo City, the town of shogi—comes to mind. But actually, at the foot of that mountain, there’s another park centered around a pond, offering a quiet and peaceful atmosphere.
Surrounded by nature, it features walking paths, waterside views, and if you venture a bit further, you can enjoy the panoramic views from Mount Maizuru. It’s the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll.

This time, we’ll focus mainly on the pond area, with a brief detour to the summit of Mt. Maizuru, for a detailed report!

What is Tendo Park (Mt. Maizuru), a Famous Cherry Blossom Spot in Tendo City?

Tendo Park is a nature-rich park developed on Mt. Maizuru in Tendo City, Yamagata Prefecture, beloved as a relaxing spot for citizens.

In spring, it is famous as a prime cherry blossom viewing spot where approximately 2,000 cherry trees bloom magnificently. Events such as the Tendo Cherry Blossom Festival and Human Chess are held, attracting many tourists.
The park also serves as a popular viewpoint offering panoramic views of Tendo city and the Yamagata Basin, where visitors can enjoy scenery that changes with the seasons.

Where is Tendō Park located?

Tendo Park previously referred only to the park atop Mount Maizuru. However, new development areas like the “Atago Pond Waterfront Space” have recently emerged at the mountain’s base. A walking path (featuring deck stairs and slopes) connecting the mountaintop with the waterfront zone at ground level has been constructed, enabling safe passage on foot.

Located within a residential area close to National Route 13, its easy accessibility by car is another welcome feature. Parking lots are also available along the surrounding roads, making it a hidden gem of a park that’s easy to visit even on weekdays.

Tendo City itself is famous as a production center for shogi pieces and is known as the “Shogi Town.” The city features large shogi piece monuments and hosts many events related to shogi.
It’s also popular as a hot spring destination, with Tendo Onsen spreading out around the city center. After exploring, you can relax with a day trip bath or enjoy an overnight stay.

It’s Not Just Cherry Blossoms! Discover the Charm of Tendō Park!

Tendo Park has been developed around its central pond, with well-maintained waterside walking paths allowing visitors to stroll leisurely while enjoying nature.
While Tendo Park is famous as a cherry blossom spot with approximately 2,000 trees in full bloom, its major appeal lies in the distinct beauty of each season: lotus flowers in summer, autumn foliage in fall, and snowy landscapes in winter.

Bring a lunchbox for a light picnic, enjoy a leisurely stroll or walk on your day off, take photos, and discover a wide range of ways to have fun.

With numerous rest areas featuring benches and lawns, this quiet park is easily accessible and welcoming for families with young children. Many wild birds can be spotted here, attracting visitors with cameras.
Additionally, parts of the walking paths are barrier-free, allowing smooth navigation throughout the park for wheelchairs and strollers.

Also the stage for the famous “Human Shogi” event

Tendo Park (Maizuru Mountain) is best known for its annual “Human Shogi” event held in mid-April. Amidst the cherry blossoms, citizens dressed as samurai warriors in armor become pieces on a giant shogi board, enacting a game.
This popular event draws tourists from across Japan, offering a unique blend of Tendo’s local culture and cherry blossom viewing.

During the Human Shogi event, traffic restrictions are in place and shuttle buses are provided, making it a bustling spring tradition.

Must-Visit Spots Near Tendo Park! Recommended Surrounding Areas

After enjoying the nature and scenery at Tendo Park, we recommend exploring the charming spots nearby.
There are many places perfect for a stroll, including historic shrines, hot spring towns, and restaurants serving local cuisine.

Here, we introduce recommended spots around Tendō Park.

Roadside Station “Tendō Onsen (Former Music Box Museum)”

Located right near Tendō Park along National Route 13 is the “Roadside Station Tendō Onsen.”
Utilizing the building that was originally a music box museum, it opened as a roadside station in 2004 and underwent a major renovation in 2020.
Inside, you’ll find a shogi piece-making demonstration corner and exhibition spaces, offering a glimpse into the unique shogi culture of Tendō City.

Additionally, “Tento La France Factory” offers a wide selection of products made with Tendo’s famous La France pears, making it perfect for souvenir shopping.
The direct sales corner stocks fresh local vegetables, fruits, wine, and sake, providing a rich lineup packed with local flavors. Over 10 varieties of gelato are always available, and the dining area serves country-style dishes and light meals.

The grounds also feature the “Waku Waku Exchange Plaza” with large play equipment and fountains for children, as well as the “Koma no Yu” footbath shaped like shogi pieces, making it a relaxing spot for families.

The Perfect Place to Soothe Travel Fatigue! “Tendo Onsen Town”

Just a few minutes’ drive from Tendo Park lies “Tendo Onsen Town,” known as a historic hot spring resort dating back to the Meiji era.
While relatively new among hot spring towns, it boasts abundant water volume and soft, skin-friendly spring water. Accommodations range widely, from modern Japanese-style inns to affordable business hotels.

Furthermore, it boasts well-equipped day-trip hot spring facilities, perfect for a quick visit between sightseeing stops. Free footbath spots are scattered throughout the town, offering a welcome break during your stroll.

The hot spring town’s surroundings feature restaurants and cafes where you can savor local cuisine made with regional ingredients, including Yamagata’s famous specialty, “Imoni” stew.

Takekisao Shrine: A Shrine Associated with Oda Nobunaga!

Takekisao Shrine is a historic shrine dedicated to Lord Oda Nobunaga. It was founded in 1880 (Meiji 13) by Oda Nobuyoshi, a descendant of the Oda family who was transferred to Tendo during the Edo period.

Perched on a hilltop, the shrine grounds are adorned with beautiful cherry blossoms in spring, making it a beloved local hanami spot. Large banners honoring Lord Nobunaga line the grounds, evoking the presence of the warlord amidst the tranquil atmosphere.

The shrine offers panoramic views of Tendo city, making it perfect for leisurely strolls. It’s a popular spot for history buffs and fans of warlords.

・For more details on Kenjun Shrine, check out the article below!
[Yamagata/Tendo City] Kenjun Shrine, Dedicated to Oda Nobunaga | Goshuin and Konpeito Candy Pilgrimage Report

Summary

Tendo Park is a spot packed with the essence of Tendo City. Relax and be healed by nature in the waterfront zone with its pond, enjoy the spectacular views from the summit of Mt. Maizuru, experience Tendo’s unique shogi culture, and enjoy the spring Human Shogi event.

Nearby, the roadside station “Tendo Onsen” offers convenient shopping, dining, and foot baths.
With scenery changing with the seasons, it’s perfect for families and those seeking a peaceful solo stroll.

When visiting Tendo City, be sure to stop by!