About Hirosaki Castle
Hirosaki Castle is located in Tsugaru Hirano, Hirosaki City, Aomori Prefecture, Japan. It is a terraced hirayama castle with six castles: Honmaru, Futamaru, Mitamaru, Shikamaru, Hokoku, and Nishikoku. It was built in 1603 by the lord of the Hirosaki domain, Tsugaru Weishin, and completed in 1611 by his son, Tsugaru Nobumaki, and was the residence of the lord of the Hirosaki domain during the Edo period.
Hirosaki Castle is a symbol of Hirosaki and has a long history. When the construction of the castle was completed in 1611, it was originally a five-story structure, which was burned down by lightning in 1627 and rebuilt in 1810. In addition, Hirosaki Castle contains three arrow towers, five gates, a triple moat, and other architectural remains, all of which are designated as important cultural properties in Japan.
Now, Hirosaki Park has been built around Hirosaki Castle after renovation. The park is one of the most famous cherry blossom viewing spots in Japan, with 2,600 cherry blossoms of 50 different species planted in the park, which come into bloom in late April. The park is also home to the Hirosaki Cherry Blossom Festival, which is held every year from late April to early May. The park is lit up until 23:00 during the festival, giving visitors a fantastic view of the cherry blossoms at night.
How to get there
15 minutes by bus from Hirosaki Station
Tips
Now that the keep has been moved, the keep can be seen with Mt. Iwaki in the background. Moreover, the appearance of the keep at that time is on the side with the gable. It is the best view.
There are many things you can see only now that the stone wall is under construction.
It is recommended to visit in seasons other than cherry blossom season.
