TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Takada Park (Takada Castle Ruins Park) is a castle park located in Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture, and was developed around the site of Takada Castle from the Edo period. The landscape of the castle ruins, with its moats (outer and inner moats) and earthworks remaining, forms the foundation of the park, and it is known nationwide for the approximately 4,000 cherry trees that bloom there in the spring. It has been selected as one of the "Top 100 Cherry Blossom Spots in Japan," and in addition to its splendor during the day, the "night cherry blossoms" lit up at night are also a major attraction. Even outside of cherry blossom season, you can enjoy the historical atmosphere of the castle ruins and the natural beauty of each season.
Highlights
- View of the cherry blossom trees and moat: When in full bloom, the cherry blossoms are reflected in the moat, creating an impressive sight together with the castle grounds.
- Nighttime Cherry Blossom Illumination: During events such as the Takada Castle Cherry Blossom Viewing Party, the area is bustling with nighttime illuminations and food stalls. The contrast between the illuminated cherry blossoms and the stone walls and moat is beautiful.
- Remains of Takada Castle: You can see the earthworks and moats unique to castle ruins, as well as restored turrets and gates (with exhibits and photo spots).
- Nature of the Four Seasons: You can enjoy the changing faces of the seasons, not only the cherry blossoms in spring, but also the fresh greenery of early summer, the autumn leaves, and the snowy scenery of winter.
- Events and Food Stalls: Many food stalls and events are held, mainly during the cherry blossom season, where you can enjoy local food.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: Takada Station on the Echigo Tokimeki Railway...about 15-20 minutes on foot, or a few minutes by taxi.
- Nearby major stations: JR Naoetsu Station - 10-15 minutes by bus or taxi. From Joetsu Myoko Station (Hokuriku Shinkansen), it is 20-30 minutes by public transport or taxi.
- Local buses: Local buses and sightseeing buses in the Naoetsu and Takada areas may operate. Special services may be added during the cherry blossom season, so please check the timetable in advance.
- Car/Parking: Paid parking is available around the park. Temporary parking is set up during the cherry blossom season, but it can get very crowded, so we recommend using public transportation.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- A quick stroll: 30 minutes to 1 hour (just walking around the moat)
- Take your time to look around and take photos: 1-2 hours (if you take your time to explore the highlights of the park)
- Cherry blossom viewing (eating, drinking, and enjoying food stalls): 2-3 hours or more (many people stay even longer during night cherry blossom viewing or events)
Nearby spots
- Kasugayama Castle Ruins (Kasugayama Park): The ruins of a castle associated with Uesugi Kenshin, recommended for history buffs (accessible by car or public transport)
- Joetsu City Aquarium Umigatari: A popular aquarium for families (Naoetsu area)
- Takada Sekaikan: A historic movie theater and a great spot for a cultural stroll
- Naoetsu Coast and Seascapes: A place to enjoy the coastal scenery and seafood
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The area is extremely crowded during the cherry blossom season (usually from early to mid-April) and the illumination period. We recommend using public transportation and visiting early in the morning or on a weekday.
- Parking: Parking spaces tend to fill up quickly, causing street parking and traffic congestion. Please follow the instructions of parking attendants and do not park anywhere other than designated areas.
- Manners: Please take your trash with you, do not break cherry tree branches, and in most cases, open flames (such as barbecues) are prohibited, so please follow the rules and enjoy yourself.
- Cold at night: You can enjoy the cherry blossoms until late at night, but it can get quite chilly at night, so be sure to take precautions against the cold.
- Footing and Safety: The moat and stone steps can become slippery due to rain or melting snow. Please wear comfortable shoes.
- Pets: Some parks require pets to be on a leash or have restricted areas. Please check the rules beforehand.
- Check the latest information: The flowering situation, illuminations, and temporary transportation arrangements (special buses, parking changes, etc.) change every year, so we recommend checking the official information of Joetsu City and Takada Park, as well as the tourist association guidelines, before visiting.
