Hirosaki Castle and Park in Aomori, Japan
In Japan, castles are one of the most eye-catching tourist attractions you should never miss out on. Almost in every prefecture, they have castles rich with history and attractions that many people will surely enjoy.
One of the prettiest and culturally rich ones would be the Hirosaki Castle and Park, found in Aomori, Japan. Not only does it offer you a sense of culture, but it’s also one of the best spots to visit during the sakura season!
Where is Hirosaki Castle and Park located?
Found in the Tohoku Region in the northernmost part of Japan, the Hirosaki Castle and Park is known to be the only remaining castle in the Tohoku area built in the Edo Period. It is situated in Aomori Prefecture.
What makes the Hirosaki Castle and Park a must-visit?
Aside from being the symbol of Hirosaki City, this castle and park is one of the main tourist attractions in Aomori Prefecture. During springtime, the park turns into a beautiful home to 2,600 trees and 50 cherry tree varieties, making it a sight to see from day to night. It also houses Important Cultural Properties, which are very significant to the Japanese.
What can you see or do around Hirosaki Castle and Park?
Have a picnic during sakura season
Every year, there’s a Cherry Blossom Festival happening from April 23 to May 3. During this time, many people visit to go and have a picnic with friends and family while being surrounded by beautiful cherry trees, serenaded by Hayashi musicians, and eating delicious local food!
See the illuminated cherry blossoms at night.
Take your date to a dreamy, romantic stroll along Hirosaki Park, where thousands of cherry trees are illuminated with LED lights by nighttime. Go by the moat, which gives you a stunning view as petals start to fall down, making it a sight you wouldn’t want to miss when in Japan.
Learn history at the Hirosaki Castle
When you enter the castle, you’ll be able to know the timeline of how it was moved and reconstructed. On the ground floor, you can buy souvenir goods for your friends. Going up, you may take a commemorative photo as you wear a Japanese feudal lord attire!
Visit the Fujita Memorial Garden
Situated at the south of the Hirosaki Castle is the second-largest Japanese garden in the Tohoku region. This Edo-style landscape garden was built in 1919 will remind you of the Taisho period. It offers a scenic view of Mt. Iwaki on a clear day, along with blooming flowers for all seasons.
When’s the best time to visit?
The views are stunning during spring, from April to May, depending on the cherry blossom forecast every year. The Hirosaki Castle is closed from November 24 to March 31 for its winter closing.**
How to Go to Hirosaki Castle and Park
Take the Dotemachi Loop Bus at the JR Hirosaki Station. Get off at the Shiyakusho-mae bus stop.
Rates and Other Information
As of April 2021, here are the entrance fees*:
| Honmaru/Kita no Kuruwa Area | Botanical Garden | Combo ticket: Honmaru/Kita no Kuruwa Area, Botanical Garden, Fujita Memorial Garden | |
| Adults | ¥320 | ¥320 | ¥520 |
| Children | ¥100 | ¥100 | ¥160 |
*Discount prices are available for groups of 10 people or more.
**Note: Rates and operating hours may have changed due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Make sure to visit their website for updates.
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Also read: A Guide To Motomachi Neighborhood In Hakodate, Japan.