🗺️ Hirosaki Castle弘前城、弘前公園

Hirosaki Castle was the residence of the Tsugaru clan during the Edo period and housed the Hirosaki Domain office within the castle. After the Meiji Restoration, it was designated for preservation under the castle abolition order and was subsequently opened to the public as Hirosaki Park. The original tenshu (main keep) was destroyed by lightning in 1627, but the tenshu rebuilt in 1810, along with three turrets and five gates, have been preserved to this day. These nine structures have been designated as Important Cultural Properties of Japan. Hirosaki Park is a representative cherry blossom viewing site in Japan. The beauty of the cherry blossoms is highly acclaimed, and the "Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival" is held from late April to early May, attracting numerous tourists each year. In addition to Hirosaki Castle surrounded by cherry blossoms, the petals that fall and accumulate on the moat create a beautiful scene reminiscent of a kimono obi, making it a perfect spot for photography. In autumn, the "Chrysanthemum and Maple Festival" is held, while winter features the "Snow Lantern Festival," and summer hosts the "Neputa Festival," providing spectacular sights throughout the four seasons. Due to ongoing stone wall restoration work, discussions have arisen about relocating the entire tenshu to another site. Restoration is still in progress, and the tenshu is scheduled to be moved back to its original location in 2026.

One of the 12 existing castles. A top cherry blossom viewing spot in Japan. It is expected that the castle will be relocated to its original place in 2026.