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Historical Background
The only remaining castle from the Edo period, Hirosaki Castle, was built in 1611 by Nobuhira, the lord of the Tsugaru Clan. It was, however, burnt down by lightning in 1627 and built again in 1810. Prior to reconstruction, it was five stories high; now, three stories. It is the only castle in the Tohoku area that has not been reconstructed in the modern era. The castle was built using the Hariyama style, where the main tower was constructed on top of a hill. This was to allow easier defence during the Edo period.
Characteristics
Hirosaki Castle has three stories, moats and castle gates. The castle is situated in Hirosaki Park, which spans about 0.6 square kilometres. Upon entry into the castle, visitors can look through the small windows of the castle’s towers that were used for shooting arrows. The castle uses a gable roof that has two sides that come together to meet in the middle.
In Spring, almost 2000 cherry blossom trees cover Hirosaki Park and Castle. Many visitors come from all over Japan and the world to view this spectacular site. Within the park, visitors can see other spectacular sites such as Gokuku Shrine and Hirosaki Castle Botanical Garden (images below).
The close proximity of all the attractions makes the locations highly accessible, enhancing the sightseeing experience.
How to Access
〒 1 Shimoshiroganecho, Hirosaki, Aomori 036-8356
1 hr by car from Aomori Station
Take the train from Aomori Station to Hirosaki Station (45 mins), then a bus from Hirosaki Bus Stop to the City Hall (9 mins). Walk for 6 mins.
30 min walk from JR Hirosaki Station
Best time to go / Opening Hours
In Spring - there is a Cherry Blossom Festival from April 23 to May 5.
Closed days
November 24 to March 31
Entrance fee
Adult 320 yen; Children 100 yen
To know more
Hirosaki Castle, Aomori | One Minute Japan Travel Guide:
A quick 1 minute travel guide about the exterior and interior of Hirosaki Castle (visuals only)
Aomori Hirosaki Castle Cherry Blossom:
A glimpse of Hirosaki Castle during Spring, covered in cherry blossoms (text only)
Reference
Reference
Official Aomori Travel Guide: https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3700.html
Otemae Gate at Hirosaki Castle
Hirosaki Castle Botanical Garden
Japan Guide, https://www.japan-guide.com/e/e3700.html
Travel Japan, https://www.japan.travel/en/spot/1836/
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