Saigyo Modoshi-no-Matsu Park is a famous cherry blossom spot with around 260 trees, named after the legend of poet-monk Saigyo who was said to have turned back from Matsushima after losing a riddle contest with a local child. Offers spectacular bay views.

Around 1180, during the late Heian period, the renowned poet-monk Saigyo is said to have visited Matsushima during his wandering journey through the Oshu region. According to legend, on the hill that now forms this park, he encountered a local child whose witty responses in a riddle exchange left Sa…