Hirosaki Castle
Northern Japan's Cherry Blossom Paradise Castle
Hirosaki Castle was completed in 1611 by the Tsugaru clan, who ruled the Hirosaki Domain (covering much of present-day Aomori Prefecture) for over 260 years until the Meiji Restoration. The original five-story keep was struck by lightning and burned down in 1627, remaining absent for nearly 200 years until the current three-story tower was constructed in 1810 as a replacement. This smaller tower and several turrets survived the Meiji-era castle destruction policies, making Hirosaki one of only twelve castles in Japan with original Edo-period architecture.
The castle exemplifies traditional Japanese military architecture with its complex defensive systems: three concentric moat rings, stone walls, multiple gates, and strategic positioning on a plateau. Though modest compared to castles in central Japan, Hirosaki Castle represents the northernmost extent of samurai castle construction and the Tsugaru clan's authority over the challenging northern frontier. The castle town layout, preserved in Hirosaki's current street pattern, reflects Edo-period urban planning.
Hirosaki Castle achieved national fame as Japan's premier cherry blossom viewing destination. The castle park contains over 2,600 cherry trees of 52 varieties, planted beginning in the Meiji era when the castle grounds were converted into a public park. The combination of pink blossoms, traditional castle architecture, moat reflections, and snow-capped Mount Iwaki in the background creates one of Japan's most photographed spring landscapes. The annual Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival attracts over 2 million visitors.
Between 2015-2021, the main tower underwent a unique relocation project: it was moved 70 meters to allow stone wall repairs damaged by centuries of earthquakes. Visitors witnessed this rare engineering feat of moving a 400-ton historical structure intact. The tower returned to its original position in 2021, with fully restored ishigaki (stone walls). This project demonstrated modern Japan's commitment to preserving irreplaceable cultural heritage using cutting-edge technology.
Key Highlights
- One of only twelve surviving original Edo-period castle towers in Japan
- Japan's most famous cherry blossom destination with 2,600+ trees
- Annual Cherry Blossom Festival attracts over 2 million visitors
- Completed 1611, current tower dates from 1810
- Underwent remarkable 70-meter tower relocation for stone wall repairs (2015-2021)
- Spectacular views of Mount Iwaki from castle grounds
Access Information
Location
1 Shimoshiroganecho, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8356, Japan
Nearest Stations
- • Hirosaki Station (JR Ou Main Line)
Opening Hours
Apr 1-Nov 23: 9:00-17:00 | Nov 24-Mar 31: closed | Cherry Festival period: extended hours | Park grounds: always accessible
Admission Fee
Castle Tower & Grounds: ¥320 adults, ¥100 children | Botanical Garden combo ticket: ¥520
How to Get There
From Aomori
JR Ou Main Line to Hirosaki Station
45 minutes
From Hirosaki Station
Dotemachi Loop Bus to Shiyakusho-mae (City Hall)
15 minutes
From Tokyo
Tohoku Shinkansen to Shin-Aomori, transfer to local train
4 hours
From Sendai
Tohoku Shinkansen to Shin-Aomori, transfer to local train
3 hours
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Cherry Blossom Festival Timing
The Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival typically runs late April to early May, with peak bloom around April 23-28 (varies annually by 1-2 weeks). The festival features illuminated night viewing, food stalls, and traditional performances. Book accommodation months in advance for peak dates as the city fills completely.
Best Photography Locations
The western moat's cherry blossom tunnel creates the most iconic shot, especially with castle reflection. The Shunyo Bridge offers elevated perspectives. Sunrise (5:00-6:00 AM) provides soft light and no crowds. Night illuminations (sunset-21:00) create magical pink-lit reflections in moat waters.
Arrive Early During Festival
During cherry blossom peak, arrive before 8:00 AM for peaceful viewing and parking availability. Weekday mornings are less crowded than weekends. Night illuminations draw huge evening crowds but offer unique atmosphere. Consider visiting during early blooming stages (70-80%) for fewer crowds.
Explore the Full Castle Park
The castle park is expansive with multiple gates, bridges, moats, and gardens. Allow 2-3 hours to explore fully. Visit the Botanical Garden (separate fee) for additional cherry varieties and a quiet escape. The Fujita Memorial Garden adjacent to the park offers traditional tea house experiences.
Local Food and Specialties
Try Tsugaru soba (local buckwheat noodles), Hirosaki apple products (the city produces 20% of Japan's apples), and seasonal cherry blossom-themed sweets during the festival. The castle area has tea houses serving matcha and traditional wagashi with garden views.
Winter Snow Lantern Festival
In early February, Hirosaki hosts the Snow Lantern Festival with elaborate snow and ice sculptures throughout the park, plus illuminated ice lanterns. This winter event offers a completely different but equally beautiful castle experience with far fewer tourists than cherry blossom season.
Autumn Colors Alternative
While less famous than cherry blossoms, autumn foliage (early-to-mid November) transforms the park with red maples and golden ginkgo trees. The Chrysanthemum and Autumn Foliage Festival features elaborate kiku dolls (chrysanthemum sculptures) and significantly fewer crowds than spring.
Learn About Tower Relocation Project
Inside the castle museum, exhibits explain the remarkable 2015-2021 tower relocation project using photographs and models. This engineering feat of moving the 400-ton structure 70 meters intact to repair earthquake-damaged stone walls showcases modern preservation techniques applied to priceless heritage.
FAQ
When is cherry blossom season?
Late April to early May, about 2 weeks later than Tokyo. The park has 2,600 cherry trees creating spectacular displays. Peak bloom lasts about one week.
Can I go inside the castle?
Yes, the three-story keep houses a museum about the clan and castle history. Note: The castle is currently being moved for stone wall repairs (completion 2025).
What's this about moving the castle?
The 400-ton castle was moved 70 meters in 2015 for foundation repairs. You can still visit it in its temporary location. This engineering feat is historically unprecedented.
Is it worth visiting outside cherry blossom season?
Yes! Summer is green and peaceful, autumn offers stunning fall colors, and winter's snow lantern festival is magical. Each season has unique beauty.
How long should I spend here?
2-3 hours to see the castle and explore the park. During cherry blossom season, add extra time for crowds and photography. The park is quite large.
Are there night illuminations?
Yes, during cherry blossom season and winter snow festival. The illuminated cherries reflected in moats are breathtaking. Check specific dates as they vary yearly.
What's the snow lantern festival?
Held in February, featuring hundreds of snow sculptures and illuminated lanterns. Ice slides and snow sculptures create winter wonderland. Less crowded than cherry blossom season.
What else should I see in Hirosaki?
The preserved samurai district, Neputa Festival museum, and numerous temples. The city maintains strong castle town atmosphere with traditional architecture.
How crowded is cherry blossom season?
Extremely crowded, especially on weekends. Over 2 million visitors during the two-week period. Book accommodation months in advance.
How do I get there from Tokyo?
Shinkansen to Shin-Aomori then limited express to Hirosaki (4 hours total). Direct flights to Aomori Airport are faster. The castle is 30 minutes walk from station.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Hasshoku Center Market
A vibrant seafood market where visitors create their own kaisendon (seafood rice bowls) by purchasing ingredients from dozens of stalls, offering a hands-on taste of Aomori's fishing culture.
Hirosaki Park Cherry Blossoms
One of Japan's top three cherry blossom viewing sites, featuring 2,600 sakura trees surrounding historic Hirosaki Castle, with spectacular moat reflections and night illuminations.
Lake Towada
A stunning caldera lake straddling Aomori and Akita prefectures, famous for crystal-clear blue waters, scenic boat cruises, and autumn foliage surrounding volcanic peaks.
Nebuta Museum Wa Rasse
An interactive museum showcasing the spectacular illuminated floats from Aomori's famous Nebuta Festival, allowing year-round experience of this dynamic summer tradition.
Oirase Gorge
A pristine 14-kilometer mountain stream flowing through moss-covered forests, featuring dozens of waterfalls, crystal-clear waters, and Japan's most celebrated autumn foliage.
Towada Art Center
An innovative contemporary art museum featuring indoor and outdoor installations by international artists, seamlessly integrated into the urban fabric of Towada City's revitalized Arts Towada district.