Hirosaki Castle
Information
MAP
Basic information
Please note that the information and photos provided here might be outdated, so always confirm before your visit.
| Address | 1 Shimoshiragin-cho, Hirosaki-shi, Aomori 036-8356, Japan |
| Access | 10 minutes by cab or 30 minutes on foot from JR Hirosaki Station |
| Phone | TEL 0172-33-8739 |
| Website | Japanese Website |
| Recommended flowers | Cherry blossoms: Late April – early May |
| Highlights | Many foreigners living in Japan say that the cherry blossoms at Hirosaki Castle are the most spectacular. The vast castle grounds are planted with countless cherry trees, which bloom simultaneously in spring. The contrast between the still snowy mountains and the cherry blossoms is beautiful. |
Photos
Guide to Enjoyment
Nestled in the city of Hirosaki in Aomori Prefecture, Hirosaki Castle stands as a significant symbol of Japan’s feudal history. Even more enchanting, however, is the breathtaking display of cherry blossoms that surround the castle every spring. With over 2,500 cherry trees, the castle’s grounds transform into a vibrant pink haven, drawing visitors from across the globe to partake in one of Japan’s most stunning sakura festivals.
Introduction to Hirosaki Castle, Aomori
Built in the early 17th century, Hirosaki Castle is a historic structure that offers insights into Japan’s samurai era. The castle park spans over 49 hectares, featuring moats, fortifications, and beautiful garden areas that reflect different seasons, with the cherry blossom season being the most celebrated.
Sakura Splendor at Hirosaki Castle
Hirosaki Castle’s cherry blossom festival is renowned for its sheer scale and beauty, making it one of the top sakura viewing destinations in Japan.
Cherry Blossom Highlights
Castle Backdrop
– The juxtaposition of vibrant cherry blossoms against the historic castle creates a picturesque scene.
Boat Rides
– Visitors can enjoy boat rides on the castle’s moats, gliding beneath tunnels of blooming sakura branches.
Petal-filled Moats
– As the season progresses, fallen sakura petals cover the moats, creating a mesmerizing “sakura carpet” on the water.
Visitor’s Guide
Reaching Hirosaki Castle
Hirosaki Castle is easily accessible from Hirosaki Station by bus or a pleasant walk. During the cherry blossom festival, special transportation services often operate to cater to the influx of visitors.
Other Attractions within the Castle Grounds
Apart from sakura viewing, the castle grounds offer several historical structures, botanical gardens, and the Hirosaki Castle Museum, which delves into the region’s history.
Nearby Attractions
Neputa Village
– A cultural facility where visitors can experience the Hirosaki Neputa Festival and its traditional crafts.
Tsugaru-jamisen Hall
– A place to experience live performances of Tsugaru-jamisen, a traditional local musical instrument.
