Novi, Michigan, October 24, 2025
News Summary
Novi, Michigan, has introduced the Sakura Novi development, the first Asian-inspired mixed-use project in the state. Located on Grand River Avenue, it features Sakura Gardens, a Japanese-inspired public park with a pond and cherry blossom trees. The development includes 130 completed townhomes, two established businesses, and plans for several more, aiming to create a cultural hub for Asian cuisine and community engagement. The total investment exceeds $50 million.
Novi, Michigan has unveiled the Sakura Novi development, which is touted as Michigan’s first Asian-inspired mixed-use project. This innovative residential and retail destination, situated on Grand River Avenue, includes a variety of features aimed at enhancing the community experience and celebrating Asian culture.
The centerpiece of the development, Sakura Gardens, is a Japanese-inspired public green space that has been completed. This area serves as the focal point of the development and includes a walking path surrounding a 2-acre pond, cherry blossom trees, rock formations, and a sensory play area made from natural materials. Additional amenities feature seating areas with views of the pond and a central plaza that accommodates events with steps descending to the water’s edge.
Sakura Novi currently boasts over 130 completed townhomes, with plans for a total of 176 units when construction concludes. Approximately 60 residents are already renting at The Residences at Sakura Novi, which features three-story townhomes that offer two to three bedrooms, one to two-car garages, and flexible workspaces.
In terms of dining and shopping options, the development has already welcomed two businesses: Paris Baguette, a bakery known for its blend of French and Asian pastries, sandwiches, and beverages, and Klawsome!, Michigan’s first stand-alone claw machine arcade. Over the next six months, additional businesses are slated to open, with one to two new tenants joining monthly.
The aim of Sakura Novi is to establish a cultural hub for Asian cuisine and community engagement in Oakland County, which hosts one of Michigan’s largest Asian populations. The structure’s contemporary architectural style fuses Japanese and Korean influences, complete with Sakura flower art panels and illuminated signage strategically placed throughout the area.
Pathways meander around the pond and lead into the residential area while also connecting to an observation plaza with views of a nearby wetland. The total investment for the Sakura Novi project exceeds $50 million, with construction overseen by Robertson Homes of Bloomfield Hills. Future dining options will include ramen and sushi restaurants, further enhancing the culinary diversity of the area.
Upcoming openings include Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House by the Chubby Cattle Group, Dancing Pine Korean Steak House, Presotea, a Taiwanese boba tea shop, Teso Life, a Japanese-themed department store set to be the first in Michigan with a 12,000 square foot space, and Book Off, Japan’s largest second-hand bookstore chain making its Midwest debut. Overall, the Sakura Novi development aims to become an international shopping and dining destination while enriching the local community.
The dedication ceremony for the Sakura Gardens took place on October 23, featuring a reception with refreshments, music, and an open campus walkthrough, showcasing the amenities available to residents and visitors alike.
Feature Summary of Sakura Novi
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Location | Grand River Avenue, Novi, Michigan |
| Development Type | Mixed-use, Asian-inspired |
| Sakura Gardens | Japanese-inspired public green space, 2-acre pond |
| Completed Townhomes | 130 (total planned: 176) |
| Current Residents | 60 |
| New Businesses Opened | Paris Baguette, Klawsome! |
| Total Investment | $50 million+ |
| Upcoming Businesses | Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House, Dancing Pine Korean Steak House, Presotea, Teso Life, Book Off |
FAQ
What is Sakura Novi?
Sakura Novi is a residential and retail destination located on Grand River Avenue in Novi, Michigan. It is Michigan’s first Asian-inspired mixed-use project.
What features does Sakura Gardens have?
Sakura Gardens features a walking path around a 2-acre pond, cherry blossom trees, various plants, rock formations, a sensory play area made from natural materials, seating areas overlooking the pond, and a central plaza for events with steps leading down to the pond.
How many townhomes are planned in Sakura Novi?
Over 130 townhomes are completed, with a total of 176 units planned once construction is finished.
How many businesses have opened in Sakura Novi?
Two businesses have already opened: Paris Baguette and Klawsome!
What is the total investment for the Sakura Novi project?
The total investment for the Sakura Novi project exceeds $50 million.
What future businesses are expected to open in Sakura Novi?
Upcoming businesses include Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House by the Chubby Cattle Group, Dancing Pine Korean Steak House, Presotea, Teso Life, and Book Off.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Novi Dedicated Sakura Gardens in Asian-Themed District
Paris Baguette Opens New Location in Novi, MI
Governor Whitmer’s Trade Mission to Japan Cost $216,000
Novi, Michigan Debuts First Claw Machine Arcade, Klawsome!
Novi Welcomes Klawsome: A Family-Friendly Claw Machine Arcade
Novi to Launch $270 Million City West Development Project
Rare Beauty’s Community-Driven Strategy is Transforming the Beauty Industry
New Restaurants and Closures in Metro Detroit’s Dining Scene
Novi Unveils Exciting Asian-Themed Development with Unique Dining and Shopping Experiences
Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press: Sakura Novi Gardens
- Wikipedia: Novi, Michigan
- Spectrum Local News: Asian-Themed District Expanding
- Google Search: Sakura Novi
- DBusiness: Sakura Novi Adding Japanese-Themed Department Store
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sakura Novi
- Click on Detroit: Asian-Themed Mixed-Use Development
- Google News: Sakura Novi
Author: STAFF HERE NOVI WRITER
The NOVI STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERENovi.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Novi, Oakland County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Motor City Comic Con, Michigan State Fair, and Novi Home and Garden Show. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Novi Chamber of Commerce and Novi Community Foundation, plus leading businesses in automotive, technology, and manufacturing that power the local economy such as Gentherm, Stoneridge, and Daifuku North America. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREDetroitMI.com, HEREGrandRapids.com, HERENorthville.com, and HEREPlymouth.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Michigan's dynamic landscape.
