Zaimokuiwa Park is a scenic park located near the boundary between Shiroishi City and Shichikashuku Town in Miyagi Prefecture. Surrounded by the clear waters of the Shiroishi River and dramatic rock formations, the park is a place where visitors can experience both nature and local history.
The park takes its name from Obara no Zaimokuiwa, a spectacular rock formation designated as a National Natural Monument of Japan. The cliff rises beside the river and has a distinctive columnar structure that resembles rows of enormous pieces of timber.
With cherry blossoms in spring, refreshing riverside scenery in summer, colorful foliage in autumn, and snow-covered landscapes in winter, Zaimokuiwa Park offers a different experience in every season.
Zaimokuiwa Park was developed around the theme of “a dialogue between water and stone.” The clear waters of the Shiroishi River and the area’s striking geological formations create a harmonious natural landscape.
The park is conveniently located along National Route 113 and has facilities designed for relaxation and family recreation, including fountains, shallow water channels, and pergola-style shelters.
Visitors can simply stroll through the grounds, enjoy a picnic beside the river, or use the park as a base for exploring the surrounding attractions.
Spring brings cherry blossoms and fresh green foliage. From late April through May, colorful koinobori—traditional carp-shaped streamers associated with Children’s Day in Japan—are displayed above the river. The combination of blue sky, cherry blossoms, flowing water, and colorful koinobori creates a charming seasonal landscape.
In summer, families visit to enjoy the cool shade of the trees and the sound of the river. The park’s waterside areas are suitable for relaxing, playing, and enjoying a picnic. Admission to the park is free, making it an easy destination for a casual day outdoors.
In autumn, colorful foliage contrasts dramatically with the enormous rock walls. The red and yellow leaves against the geometric patterns of the columnar rocks create one of the area’s most impressive landscapes.
Winter brings snow and a quiet atmosphere. The snow-covered rocks and surrounding trees create a peaceful landscape that feels completely different from the warmer seasons.
The main attraction of the park is Obara no Zaimokuiwa, a huge cliff standing on the left bank of the Shiroishi River.
The rock formation is approximately 65 meters high and 100 meters wide. Its surface is covered with distinctive columnar joints forming polygonal shapes, including pentagons and hexagons. Seen from a distance, the columns resemble countless pieces of timber standing side by side, which gave the formation its name, “Zaimokuiwa,” meaning “timber rocks.”
Obara no Zaimokuiwa was designated a National Natural Monument in 1934. Its unusual geological structure makes it an important natural feature as well as an impressive sightseeing attraction.
A local legend offers a more imaginative explanation for the unusual rock formation.
According to the story, a master carpenter from Hida, a historic region in central Japan known for skilled craftsmen, attempted to build a Fudō-do Buddhist hall in a single night. However, summer nights are short, and he was unable to finish the work before dawn.
With the remaining pieces of timber no longer needed, he is said to have thrown them into the river. The timber supposedly transformed into stone, creating the enormous rock formation seen today.
While the geological formation has a natural scientific explanation, this traditional story adds a fascinating layer of local folklore to the landscape.
Another important attraction within the park is the Former Kamitozawa Kendan Residence, the Kimura Family House. The building has been relocated and reconstructed within the park and is designated as a Miyagi Prefecture Tangible Cultural Property.
The residence was originally built during the middle of the Edo period. Materials from the original construction period were reused during the restoration, helping recreate the appearance of the historic building.
The house belonged to the Kimura family, who served as kendan, an official responsible for administrative and policing duties in a post town. The building therefore provides a glimpse into the social and economic life of historic travelers and residents along the old transportation routes.
Inside, visitors can see valuable materials such as old documents and sekifuda, traditional wooden or paper markers used to indicate official lodging or other information. These exhibits help explain the lifestyle and culture of the period.
For visitors looking for a meal, Soba-dokoro Nagomi Chaya is a popular farmhouse-style restaurant within the park.
The building has a traditional appearance reminiscent of the Edo period, while the interior features warm wooden furnishings and a relaxed atmosphere. The restaurant serves fragrant handmade soba noodles made with locally produced buckwheat flour.
Seasonal mountain vegetables are also featured in the menu, allowing visitors to enjoy flavors associated with the surrounding countryside.
The restaurant is generally closed during the winter season from December through March, so visitors planning a winter trip should check its operating schedule in advance.
The park also has a small shop known as the Zaimokuiwa Store and an unusual structure called the Zaimokuiwa Himuro, or natural ice house.
The ice house takes advantage of a naturally occurring wind cave. Cool air flows through the space even during summer, creating a naturally refrigerated environment. This traditional use of the landscape provides an interesting example of how local people made practical use of natural conditions before modern refrigeration.
Families can also enjoy the park’s fishing pond and waterside recreation area. These facilities make Zaimokuiwa Park suitable for visitors who want to spend a relaxed day outdoors rather than simply viewing the rock formations.
The combination of the river, trees, open spaces, and family facilities makes the park an easy place to include in a sightseeing itinerary around southern Miyagi.
Zaimokuiwa Park is surrounded by several attractions that can be combined into a day trip.
Shichikashuku Dam and Lake Shichikashuku are located farther along the river system. The lake is surrounded by the mountains of southern Miyagi and is known for its scenic views and outdoor activities.
Michi-no-Eki Shichikashuku, one of Japan’s roadside stations, is another convenient stop for local food and products.
Farther upstream, visitors can see Nametsu Otaki Waterfall, also known as the “Two-Story Waterfall,” where water flows dramatically over a series of rock steps.
In winter, Shichikashuku Ski Resort provides opportunities for winter sports, while Shichikashuku Auto Campground is a popular destination for summer outdoor activities. Obara Onsen, a traditional hot spring area, is also nearby and can be combined with sightseeing at the park.
From the Shiroishi Interchange on the Tohoku Expressway, take National Route 113 toward Shichikashuku. The journey takes approximately 20 minutes by car.
From JR Shiroishi Station, the park is approximately 30 minutes by car.
Parking is available at the park, with spaces for approximately 79 regular vehicles and 8 large vehicles.
Zaimokuiwa Park offers much more than a view of a remarkable rock formation. The park brings together the dramatic geology of Obara no Zaimokuiwa, the clear waters of the Shiroishi River, historic architecture, traditional local food, and family-friendly outdoor facilities.
In spring, visitors can enjoy cherry blossoms and colorful koinobori. Summer is ideal for relaxing beside the river, while autumn brings spectacular foliage against the columnar rock cliffs. Winter transforms the area into a quiet snow-covered landscape.
For travelers exploring southern Miyagi, Zaimokuiwa Park is a convenient place to experience the region’s natural beauty, geological heritage, traditional culture, and local cuisine in one destination.