NEWS

Local Events & News

Discover local events and travel tips around Kakuda City and the greater Sendai area.
We hope these help you plan your stay at MARUKI Saifuku.

2026.05.07 Sightseeing & Experience

Cruise Through Fresh Green Gorges — Abukuma River Boat Ride

As the trees reach their most vibrant greens, we'd love to recommend the "Abukuma Line Boat Ride" in neighboring Marumori Town.

Drift along the gorge carved by the Abukuma River over millennia, guided by a boatman on a leisurely 70-minute journey. May is when the fresh greenery on both banks is at its most beautiful — the reflections of verdant leaves and striking rock formations on the water create a natural scroll painting. The river breeze and gentle pace offer a perfect escape from everyday life.

The boatman's stories about the history of the Abukuma River and local life in Marumori add a special charm to the trip. Passengers of all ages are welcome aboard.

After the boat ride, we recommend exploring Marumori Town. Visit "Sairi Yashiki," a historic merchant estate open to the public since the Edo period, or enjoy forest bathing at "Fudoson Park" along the clear stream.

Marumori Town is only about 20 minutes by car from MARUKI Saifuku — a perfect activity for the day after your stay.

Name:
Abukuma Line Boat Ride (阿武隈ライン舟下り)
Address:
12 Shimotaki, Marumori Town, Igu District, Miyagi (boarding at Marumori Tourism Center)
Departures:
9:45 / 11:30 / 13:20 / 15:20 (15:20 departure Apr–Oct only)
Duration:
Approx. 70 minutes (round trip)
Closed:
Every Monday (or following day if Monday is a holiday)
Price:
Adults ¥2,500 / Children ¥1,300 (tax included)
Reservation:
Book via official website up to 3 days in advance. Walk-ins available if seats remain
From MARUKI Saifuku:
Approx. 20 minutes by car

Source: Abukuma Line Official Website (Japanese)

2026.05.03 Seasonal Event

33rd Kakuda Space Kids Festival (May 5)

Full-scale H-II rocket model at Daiyama Park, Kakuda City

On May 5 (Tue, National Holiday), the "33rd Kakuda Space Kids Festival" will be held at Daiyama Park in Kakuda City.

Kakuda is home to the JAXA Kakuda Space Center, and this annual festival offers unique space-themed experiences including water rocket launches and daytime astronomical observations. There are also activities for the whole family such as trout catching, tree climbing, and yosakoi dance performances.

Children (elementary school age and under) can collect stamps on a planetary stamp rally — collect 4 stamps for a chance at the capsule toy machine. Food stalls will also be available.

Date & Time:
May 5, 2026 (Tue/Holiday) 9:30 AM – 3:00 PM
Venue:
Daiyama Park, Kakuda City
Parking:
Daiyama Park, Kakuda Junior High School, Kakuda Elementary School, Former Kakuda Nursery site
Contact:
Space Kids Festival Committee (Kakuda City Commerce & Tourism Division) TEL 0224-63-2120
From MARUKI Saifuku:
Approx. 10 minutes by car

Source: Kakuda City Official Website (Japanese)

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