Hirosaki Park

Hirosaki Park (also known as Takayoshi Park) is a vast park located in the center of Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, covering an area of approximately 492,000 square meters. This site was once the location of Hirosaki Castle, the residence of the Tsugaru clan, who governed a domain of 100,000 koku. It still retains many traces of the feudal era.

At the center of the park stands Hirosaki Castle, the northernmost existing tenshu (castle tower) in Japan. The current tenshu was rebuilt in 1810, the seventh year of the Bunka era, and is one of twelve existing tenshu from the Edo period. It is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan and is the only remaining tenshu in the Tohoku region.

Hirosaki Castle consists of six baileys, with multiple gates, watchtowers, and moats surrounding the main bailey, preserving its historical appearance. A castle of this size, maintained and opened to the public as a park, is very rare in Japan. Among its highlights, the view from "Shimajon Bridge," featuring the vermilion handrails and the tenshu, is a popular photo spot. Additionally, the exquisite decoration of the shachihoko (a mythical creature with the body of a fish and the head of a tiger) on the roof of the tenshu is also noteworthy.

Throughout the seasons, Hirosaki Park hosts various events that attract numerous tourists year-round.

■ Spring: "Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival"
This park is one of Japan's foremost cherry blossom viewing spots, featuring over 2,600 cherry trees of approximately 52 varieties. The site flourishes with Somei Yoshino and weeping cherry blossoms, creating picturesque scenes such as cherry blossom tunnels, the interplay of Hirosaki Castle and cherry blossoms, and the "hanaikada" (flower rafts) of petals blanketing the outer moat. Held annually from mid-April to early May, this major event welcomes about 2 million visitors from across the country. At night, illuminations create a magical landscape.

■ Autumn: "Hirosaki Castle Chrysanthemum and Maple Festival"
From mid-October to early November, around 1,000 maple trees, ginkgo trees, and even cherry trees turn vibrant shades of red and yellow, dyeing the park in beautiful autumn colors. Chrysanthemum doll displays and flower exhibitions take place, and at night, the illuminated autumn foliage creates an enchanting atmosphere.

■ Winter: "Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival" and "Winter Sakura Light Up"
In February, the "Hirosaki Castle Snow Lantern Festival" is held, featuring around 200 snow sculptures, lanterns, and mini igloos lining the park, creating a fantastical atmosphere with candlelight. Additionally, during the "Winter Sakura Light Up," the cherry branches dusted with snow glow pink, creating a scene that captivates visitors as if cherry blossoms are blooming in winter.

■ Tourist Attractions Around Hirosaki Park
There are many fascinating tourist spots near Hirosaki Park.

Tsugaru Han Neputa Village
A facility where visitors can experience the history and culture of the Neputa Festival, featuring real float displays and taiko drum experiences.

Fujita Memorial Garden
A beautiful garden that harmonizes a Western-style mansion with a Japanese garden, allowing visitors to enjoy seasonal flowers and landscapes.

Starbucks Coffee Hirosaki Park Front Store
A registered tangible cultural property repurposed from the former residence of the commander of the 8th Division built during the Taisho era. Its retro ambiance is popular among visitors.

Hirosaki Park is one of the prime tourist destinations in the Tohoku region, harmonizing historic architecture with the beauty of nature through the seasons and the local traditional culture. Each visit offers different charms, such as the cherry blossoms in spring, the autumn leaves, and the snow scenery in winter. Touring the park by rickshaw adds an extra touch of elegance to the experience.