A new branch of Starbucks opened in Kasenjiki Central Park in Sayama City in the spring of 2021. There are a few things of note of this particular Starbucks. For one, it is the first and only branch of the coffee giant in the city of Sayama. Furthermore, it is the only branch in Saitama prefecture that is in a public park. Moreover, it has a playground which is also rare for Starbucks Japan. But the real piece de resistance of this branch is that it has an untainted view of the stunning mature cherry blossoms in the park, with a nice terrace from which to enjoy the view.
The Kasenjiki Central park is located along the northern banks of the Iruma River (Irumagawa) on either side of the Shodai Bridge. The park is locally famous for its cherry blossoms. The terrace, which is actually smaller than I had expected, gives an unspoiled view of a cluster of somei yoshino cherry blossoms to the North east of the premises. You can also see the cherry blossom wood, to the south, in the distance. Moreover, the terrace is right beside the playground. So if you are visiting with children, you can watch them easily from the terrace. The branch also has a drive through if you want to get a coffee on the go.
This park is also a renowned viewing spot for the Iruma Air Show, which is held annually on November 3rd.
