🗺️ Takato Castle Ruins Park高遠城址公園

In the 4th year of the Meiji era (1871), Takato Castle was dismantled due to the abolition of feudal domains and the establishment of prefectures, and the old site was redeveloped into a park. The former samurai of the Takato Domain transplanted many cherry blossom trees here, creating the current cherry blossom viewing spot, which is known as one of Japan's three great cherry blossom sites, alongside Hirosaki Park in Aomori Prefecture and Yoshinoyama in Nara Prefecture. The area includes ancient trees over 140 years old, with approximately 1,500 Takato Shōbai cherry trees planted. The best time for cherry blossom viewing is in early April each year. The Takato Shōbai cherry is a variety of Takato cherry, with slightly smaller and reddish flowers. During the blooming period, there are night lighting events that allow visitors to enjoy the night cherry blossoms, which present a completely different charm from the daytime. The park retains historical buildings such as the Takato Pavilion and the former post station gate relocated from the castle town, all of which are registered as Important Cultural Properties. Strolling leisurely here is quite delightful. Besides the cherry blossom season, the fresh greenery in summer and the vibrant autumn leaves are also breathtaking, attracting numerous tourists year-round to admire this enchanting scenery.

The castle site park, listed as one of the "Three Great Cherry Blossom Viewing Spots in Japan," has long been renowned as "the number one cherry blossom in the world." There are approximately 1,500 Takato Shimizu cherry trees, with early April being the best time for cherry blossom viewing. An entrance fee is required only during the cherry blossom season.