Novi, October 26, 2025
News Summary
Novi recently hosted a grand opening for Sakura Gardens and Paris Baguette, part of the city’s first Asian-themed mixed-use development. Sakura Gardens includes serene landscapes and playgrounds aimed at promoting community interaction. With future businesses on the way, this development will enhance local culture and economy, reflecting Novi’s growing Asian American population.
Novi hosted a grand opening and dedication ceremony on October 23 for a new garden and bakery, marking a significant milestone in the city’s development landscape. The new garden, named Sakura Gardens, is part of Sakura Novi, Michigan’s first Asian-themed mixed-use development, aimed at enriching the community and enhancing the local economy.
Sakura Gardens features a serene pond with walking paths that will be surrounded by cherry trees and a playground, designed to become a community gathering place. The developer, Phil Kim, envisions it as a regional social hub that encourages interaction among residents and visitors alike.
On the same day, the Paris Baguette, a South Korean bakery chain known for its French-inspired pastries, celebrated its grand opening in the morning. The establishment showcases various artistic elements throughout the development, like a lit Sakura panel and a bronze Sakura character entry sign, adding to the cultural aesthetic of the site.
Since its soft opening in August, the development has also welcomed Klawsome!, an all-claw machine arcade. Several more businesses are expected to join the Sakura Novi community in the near future. Upcoming tenants include Chubby Cattle’s Wagyu Shabu House, an all-you-can-eat wagyu restaurant set to open in November, Teso Life, a Japanese-themed department store chain, Dancing Pine Korean Steak House, Cloud Boba Tea, and Book Off, Japan’s largest secondhand bookstore chain.
The Residences at Sakura Novi feature 117 townhome-style units, of which 60% are currently occupied. For prospective renters, units start at $2,550 per month for a 1,300-square-foot, two-bedroom townhouse, while a 1,765-square-foot three-bedroom unit is available for $3,250 per month. This development caters to the growing population of Asian Americans, who make up 28% of Novi’s residents, reflecting a vibrant and diversifying community.
Novi’s Mayor Justin Fischer acknowledged the past concerns surrounding the project but praised its completion and potential for economic growth. The site previously housed a vacant car wash, and the city approved the sale of the 10-acre parcel in 2018 for $3.5 million. The development has an estimated cost of $55 million, with projected tax abatements of about $1.25 million through 2029.
The project was originally envisioned by the late Oakland County Executive L. Brooks Patterson, who sought to create a Japanese village on the site. Scott Aikens, vice chairman of Robert B. Aikens and Associates, is leading the development, which aims to establish a vibrant food and shopping destination in the area.
The Sakura Novi complex is situated at 42708 Grand River Ave, Novi, contributing to the city’s cultural richness and attracting visitors from surrounding areas.
FAQ
What is Sakura Novi?
Sakura Novi is Michigan’s first Asian-themed mixed-use development, featuring a garden and various businesses catering to the community.
What components make up Sakura Novi?
Sakura Novi includes Sakura Gardens, Paris Baguette bakery, Klawsome! arcade, and upcoming businesses like Chubby Cattle’s Wagyu Shabu House, Teso Life, Dancing Pine Korean Steak House, Cloud Boba Tea, and Book Off.
What are the leasing prices for residences at Sakura Novi?
Units for lease at the Residences at Sakura Novi start at $2,550 per month for a 1,300-square-foot two-bedroom townhouse and $3,250 per month for a 1,765-square-foot three-bedroom unit.
When did the grand opening occur?
The grand opening for Sakura Gardens and Paris Baguette took place on October 23.
Key Features of Sakura Novi
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Sakura Gardens | A community gathering place with a pond, paths, playground, and cherry trees. |
| Paris Baguette | A South Korean bakery known for French-inspired pastries. |
| Klawsome! | An all-claw machine arcade that opened in August. |
| Residential Units | 117 townhome-style units starting at $2,550 per month. |
| Upcoming Businesses | Chubby Cattle, Teso Life, Dancing Pine, Cloud Boba, and Book Off. |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Novi Unveils Sakura Novi: Michigan’s First Asian-Inspired Development
Sakura Novi: Michigan’s First Asian-Inspired Mixed-Use Development
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
Additional Resources
- Detroit Free Press: Sakura Novi Gardens
- Hour Detroit: Sakura Novi Welcomes Paris Baguette
- Spectrum Local News: Michigan’s First Asian-Themed District
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Sakura Novi
- Google Search: 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.
