overview
Hirosaki Castle was the residence of the feudal lord of Tsugaru during the Edo period, and is surrounded by the vast Hirosaki Park. The castle tower, stone walls, and moat remain, and the cherry blossoms in spring, in particular, create a landscape known nationwide for the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival. The harmony of history and nature, which changes with the seasons, is an attractive feature.
Highlights
- Historical scenery of Hirosaki Castle's main tower and surrounding stone walls and moat
- Spring cherry blossom tunnel and rows of cherry trees (illuminated)
- Seasonal photo spots, from autumn leaves to snow-covered winter scenery
access
It is about a 20-minute walk from JR Hirosaki Station or a 10-minute ride on the city loop bus. By car, it is about a 30-minute drive from the Owani Hirosaki IC on the Tohoku Expressway. There is paid parking available in the area.
Estimated stay
A stroll through the garden takes about 1.5 to 3 hours. During the cherry blossom festival and other events, you can enjoy it at your own pace by staying half a day to the whole day.
Nearby spots
- Fujita Memorial Garden (historical garden)
- Tsugaru Domain Neputa Village (Local Culture Exhibition)
- Dotemachi Shopping Street (food tours and souvenirs)
Points to note
The park is extremely crowded during the cherry blossom season. There are stone steps and unpaved areas in the park, which can be slippery on rainy days, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. In winter, be careful of the cold and snow.
