Near Sendai Astronomical Observatory and Hillside Shopping Center is a lovely beauty spot; two lakes formed by Aiko Dam. It is number 31 on a list of Sendai's top 100 green areas. The lakes are popular with fishing enthusiasts; there are some hiking opportunities, too. It is best accessed by car, although there are buses that stop not far away. If you don't mind a longer walk, you can use the JR Senzan line to go to Ayashi Station, and go south from there.
- 1 min read
Gassan and Saikachi Ponds
A tale of two lakes
By Laura Welch
Community writer
You could just park your car and go for a lakeside walk, surrounded by nature
Even the road up to the ponds is beautiful on a sunny day
On the left, you can see the Aiko Dam
It sparkles intensely in sunshine
There are a few parking spots around the lake; people come here to fish
There are some hiking trails, too - you might see some wildlife, but be careful of bears
Spring is a good time to visit - the weather is good and there aren't so many insects as summer
Join the discussion
Justin Velgus
10 years ago
I totally missed this treasure when I visited! With the shopping center nearby, you can spend a whole day in the area.
1 comment in total
Book your trip
Find a nearby hotel
Explore some of the best nearby hotels and deals for the perfect place to stay in Japan.
Top Articles
-
1Aichi Prefecture: The Heart of Japan’s Umami Culture
Aichi - Sponsored -
2Exploring Japan Through the Seasons: Three First-Time Classic Tours
Culture -
3Ozu Castle Town: A Sustainable Destination in Japan
Ehime - Sponsored -
4Visiting Scenic Yanagawa On the Water’s Edge
Fukuoka - Sponsored -
5Adventure Travel For All In Chitose
Hokkaido -
6A Relaxed Mix of Sightseeing, Dining, and Shopping in Kanonji
Kagawa - Sponsored -
7See Southern Japan with Kirishima As Your Gateway
Kagoshima - Sponsored -
8How to Handle Illness Or Injury While Traveling in Japan
Planning - Sponsored -
9A Snowy Retreat at Kamenoi Hotel Tazawako, Akita
Akita - Sponsored -
10Three Charms to Experience in Fukui: Zen, Taste & Adventure
Fukui - Sponsored
-
1Guide to Bringing Medicines Into Japan
Planning -
2Bad Bunny Debí Tirar Más Fotos World Tour
Tokyo -
3The Ultimate Guide to Thrifting in Tokyo
Shopping -
4Guide to Suica Cards
Transportation -
5Ghibli Museum: How To Get Tickets (2026 Guide)
Culture -
6Your Name: Real-Life Locations in Tokyo
Tokyo -
7March Grand Sumo Tournament (Osaka)
Osaka -
8The History of Japan: Era by Era
Culture -
9Winter in Japan: Your Seasonal Guide
Planning -
10January Grand Sumo Tournament (Tokyo)
Tokyo