Hirosaki Castle is Japan’s northernmost existing castle tower designated National Important Cultural Property.

The cherry blossoms in Hirosaki Park are said to be the best in the world and are the pride of the people of Hirosaki. One reason for this is that Hirosaki City, where apple cultivation is flourishing, was able to grow beautiful cherry trees by applying the technique of pruning apple trees. 25 cherry trees were brought from Kyoto by a Tsugaru Clan samurai in 1715, and today, there are about 2,600 cherry trees of about 50 varieties planted in the park.

The “Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival” is held every year from late April to early May and attracts about 2 million visitors from Japan and abroad. When the cherry blossoms peak and fall, a “Hanayakada” (flower raft) can be seen on the outer moat, where cherry petals cover the water’s surface. The scene, which looks like a pink carpet, is truly spectacular. Another popular spot is where the sky resembles a heart surrounded by cherry blossoms.

If you want to take photos wearing a kimono, ask Yumeya, located just outside Hirosaki Park, to dress you.

In addition to spring, enjoy seasonal festivals such as the Chrysanthemum and Autumn Leaves Festival in October and November and the Snow Lantern Festival at Hirosaki Castle in February.